U.S. 36, East of Rockville Getting Chip-And-Seal

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) announced last Friday that chip seal preservation was scheduled to begin on or after Monday, August 5, weather permitting. Work is scheduled to begin on U.S. 36 between Rockville and U.S. 231.
The initial information sent by INDOT indicated the roadway would be closed to through traffic, but open to residents and businesses. A later update sent by INDOT said the roadway would “remain open, however motorists should plan extra time for their commute”. Motorists should expect long delays. Work is scheduled to last through Thursday, August 8.
Drivers can expect lane restrictions and traffic directed by flaggers while INDOT maintenance crews maintain access for vehicles. Motorists are urged to seek an alternate route. If driving through the chip seal work zone, drivers should take extra caution, drive slowly and allow additional space between vehicles to prevent stone chips from damaging windshields or paint.
Once the chip seal has cured, crews will sweep the highway clear of loose stone, apply a fog seal surface coat and paint pavement markings.
National research has shown that every $1 used to preserve INDOT roadways saves $6 to $14 in future costs. After years of heavy traffic and winter freeze-thaw cycles, small cracks typically develop in our highways. If left untreated, moisture seeps into these cracks and form potholes when water freezes and expands. As the name implies, a chip-seal treatment seals off the cracks. The stone chips provide improved traction for stopping, especially during winter.