Drivers, prepare for road-work delays

COEUR d'ALENE — Drivers are being asked to be patient when the city begins two road improvement projects next week.

The city contracted with Poe Asphalt Inc. to apply a chip-seal ​on Government Way, from Interstate 90 to Prairie Avenue, and on Ramsey Road from Hanley Avenue to Prairie Avenue.

The Government Way chip sealing is scheduled July 13 and 14, while the fog-seal coating application is scheduled July 19 and 20.

The Ramsey Road work is set for July 15 and July 21.

The project cost is $334,324.58.

“Every effort will be made to minimize traffic delays and maintain roadway access. Additional work such as sweeping and paint application will occur in the weeks following the chip seal application,” according to a city press release. “Your patience is appreciated as we strive to provide an improved roadway surface.”

The release said chip sealing is ”a cost effective and necessary treatment for extending the life of our roadways. The treatment fills and seals cracks to prevent water from penetrating below the surface and causing potholes.”

The coating consists of liquid asphalt and rock chips, and is applied to the roadway in two stages. Chip seal coating requires dry, warm weather conditions.