Step 1: Milling
“A machine basically planes off the top three inches of the road and deposits it in a truck,” says Maier. “They can fill a truck
in 15-20 minutes, so this process often involves six to 10 trucks, in addition to the milling machinery.”
Step 2: “Intermediate Course”
The contractor installs a layer of asphalt containing aggregates that help provide structure for the final layer of asphalt.
Step 3: Castings, Aprons, Curbs, and Ramps
Castings are manhole covers, valve boxes, and catch basins. They must be adjusted to ensure they function properly in the
newly repaved street. Driveway aprons that are below, or more than two-and-one-quarter inches above, the repaved street
are replaced. New curbs are installed as the budget allows. ADA-compliant ramps are installed at crosswalks.
Step 4: “Final Course”
This is the top layer of asphalt and, once laid, the bulk of the repaving work is complete.
Step 5: Site Restoration and Striping
Tree lawns are reseeded and other repairs are made as necessary. “The last piece is the striping,” says Maier. “We use a
thermal plastic paint that has a lifespan of 3-5 years.”
This is the basic process for most streets in Shaker Heights, though there are some differences on the City’s busiest streets.
“On a heavily used road, we often use a different type of asphalt and take other steps to ensure the base is more
WWW.SHAKER.LIFE | SPRING 2020 9
stable.” An engineer is also involved in the planning process for major roads.
While repaving may seem mostly an inconvenience for residents, they can help by heeding posted signs, such as no
parking on streets during work hours.
“We don’t want the machinery to have to sit idle because there’s a car parked there,” notes Maier, adding that
residents should also follow detours when posted – “they’re there for your safety” – and please, do not allow children to
play on the equipment. SL
/WWW.SHAKER.LIFE