Paving: What to Expect

Washington County performs annual paving and surface treatment work to keep neighborhood streets safe, smooth, and affordable to maintain. This year’s program includes Urban Road Maintenance District (URMD) and Road Fund (RF) overlay paving and slurry seal work from June through September 2026.

This webpage explains:

• What types of paving we use
• What to expect during construction
• How we notify residents
• How each treatment benefits your street
• Photos and diagrams showing how each process works

For current schedules, visit washingtoncountyor.gov/paving-schedule

For updates, join our mailing list: bit.ly/PavingUpdates

For questions, contact: 503‑846‑7623 or [email protected]

What Is Slurry Seal? What is Crack Seal?

Slurry seal is a thin protective coating made of oil, water, aggregate, and additives. It is applied over the pavement to seal small cracks, slow aging, and extend the life of the roadway.

Slurry seal is the second step in a two‑step pavement maintenance process. Before slurry seal can be applied, crews first complete crack sealing, which fills larger cracks to keep water from penetrating under the roadway. Crack sealing typically involves minimal traffic control, and streets usually remain open during this phase.

After crack sealing, there is normally a 3 week gap before slurry seal is placed. This waiting period is expected and allows the material to settle properly before the final protective coating is installed.

BENEFITS

• Seals small cracks
• Slows pavement aging
• Extends life of the road by 5-9 years
• Cost-effective preventative maintenance

WHAT RESIDENTS CAN EXPECT

• Crack sealing: minimal traffic control; streets typically remain open
• Slurry seal application: no traffic or parked cars allowed on the road for the entire application and curing period
• Streets closed for several hours while the surface cures
• “No parking” signs posted 48 hours in advance
• Contractor door hanger delivered 24 hours before each phase of work
• Access restored after curing is complete

Crack Seal Contractor: BCV Inc.

Slurry Seal Contractor: VSS International

What Is Asphalt Overlay Paving?

This type of paving adds a new layer of asphalt on top of the existing roadway surface. It is used when pavement is worn or uneven but does not require full reconstruction.

BENEFITS

• Smooths rough or deteriorated surfaces
• Extends pavement life by 10-15 years
• Improves ride quality and safety
• Faster and less expensive than rebuilding a road

WHAT RESIDENTS CAN EXPECT

• Roads remain open with lane closures and delays
• Brief driveway access interruptions while crews pave directly in front
• Fresh asphalt can be driven on soon after finishing and cooling

URMD Overlay Paving Contractor: Knife River

Road Fund Overlay Paving Contractor: Knife River

What Is Chip Seal?

Chip seal protects pavement by pressing small rock chips into a layer of liquid asphalt.

BENEFITS

• Seals cracks and prevents deterioration
• Adds traction and skid-resistance
• Extends pavement life by 7-10 years
• Cost-effective on rural or lower-speed roads

WHAT RESIDENTS CAN EXPECT

• Roads remain open with pilot cars guiding traffic
• Loose gravel is normal during the first few days
• Surface improves as traffic compresses the chips

How We Notify Residents

Our goal is to provide clear, timely information before construction begins.

• Initial postcard: Sent weeks in advance
• Vegetation trimming reminder: Included in all notices
• Street signs: Posted before overlay paving
• “No parking” signs: Posted 48 hours before slurry seal
• Door hangers: Delivered 24 hours before slurry seal
• Online updates: bit.ly/PavingUpdates

Safety Reminders in Work Zones

• Slow down and follow posted signs
• Follow pilot cars or flaggers
• Keep distance from construction equipment
• Avoid walking or driving on uncured slurry
• Keep pets and children away from the work area

Project Schedule

• URMD Overlay: July - September 2026
• RF Overlay: July - September 2026
• URMD Slurry: June - September 2026
• RF Slurry: June - September 2026

Final dates will be posted online at washingtoncountyor.gov/paving-schedule.