Pothole season draws nigh as temperatures surge

WASHINGTON — As temperatures rise, so does the number of potholes. But there’s a little hope for drivers as this winter comes to a close.

Local transportation departments are keeping busy patching road damage. The Maryland Highway Administration said it has spent more than $800,000 on pothole eradication this season.

“We fill potholes based on customer input, as well as proactive patrols,” said spokesman Charlie Gischlar.

D.C. is about a month away from launching its Potholepalooza campaign. In the meantime, District drivers can report potholes by dialing 311.

Although temperature fluctuations have been extreme this winter, snowfall has been scarce.

“When our snow events are less severe, generally, fewer potholes form,” said Ellen Kamilakis, with the Virginia Department of Transportation.

“While we do have a specific snow budget, it’s part of a larger maintenance budget, so what we don’t spend on snow events can go toward things like potholes and drainage projects,” Kamilakis said.

Drivers in Virginia can report potholes by calling 1-800-FOR-ROAD.

Dave Dildine

A native to the Washington area, Dave Dildine is no stranger to the region's complex traffic and weather patterns. Dave joined WTOP in 2010 when the station launched its very own in-house traffic service. You can hear him "on the 8s and when it breaks" from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays.

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