Maintaining city streets

</element><element id="paragraph-1" type="body"><![CDATA[Rain, sleet, ice, snow, blades, sand, salt and cinders - all of these have recently impacted the city streets in Chester. The winter weather can be a concern for travelers, and it can also be a concern regarding the wear and tear on city streets around town.

The City of Chester Maintenance Department works throughout the year to repair problem spots in street surfaces. The annual oil and chip program allows for larger street surfaces to be improved when needed.

Each year the City Council's Streets and Alleys Committee recommends a list of street surfaces to be included in the annual oil and chip program. This recommendation is based on suggestions from the Maintenance Department Staff, observations from city Aldermen, and input from local residents about surfaces needing attention.

After the list was compiled, J.T. Blankinship and Associates staff measured the surfaces, determined an estimate for the project, and it was put out for bids. This year the city entered into a contract with Illini Asphalt Corporation to perform the oil and chip work as specified. J.T. Blankinship staff supervised the project and guided the crew to the selected streets slated for improvements.

After the streets and alleys on the list were prepared by the Maintenance Department staff, the three-step oil and chip process began. First, the tanker truck applied oil to the road surface; then the spreader truck spread the chips on the freshly dispensed oil, followed by the roller which went over all surfaces to push the loose chips into the oil.

This year, portions of the following streets or alleys were included in the oil and chip program: Union School Road, Kaskaskia Street, Hancock Street, McFerron Street, Buena Vista Street, Madison Street, White Street, Harrison Street, Wall Street, Mullins Road, Deer Path Lane, Fairway Lane, Three Springs Road, Dawnview, alley between High Street and Oak Street, Otts Drive, Knapp Court and some parking lot surfaces.

The City of Chester strives to maintain all road surfaces in order to provide safe travel and attractive neighborhoods in Chester. The City of Chester is pleased to provide this service and wishes all residents a safe and Happy New Year!