Report potholes, broken sidewalks

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - The City of Norfolk is expecting potholes to surface following last weekend's storm and they are asking you to report them. The city is also asking citizens to report any broken, cracked sidewalks so they can be repaired right away.

"Whenever the roadways freeze and then melt, the freeze-thaw cycle weakens the pavement. The repeated passing of vehicles over the weakened spot creates a hole in the roadway," explained Jim Checkovich, Street Engineer.

Potholes are created when moisture gets into the pavement, freezes and expands. When it thaws, the pavement becomes weaker. As cars drive over the weakened pavement, it becomes even more damanged.

The Virginia Department of Transportation's Bill Collier says repairs can be made within 48 hours of pothole reports.

A 24-hour hotline has been set up to report potholes and broken sidewalks in the city. Call 823-4050 to report potholes or broken sidewalks. You may also e-mail reports to PWorks@norfolk.gov.

There's also a convenient online form at www.norfolk.gov/PublicWorks/pothole.asp if you'd like to submit a report that way.