Frequently Asked Questions

The Pavement Management Program is a strategic plan used by urban planners and engineers to assess road conditions and prioritize maintenance and repairs. This approach helps cities effectively allocate resources to enhance roadway longevity, safety, and comfort for all users. 

Pavement inspections are crucial for evaluating the current state of roadways to ensure safety and to identify necessary maintenance or repairs. This proactive process aids in extending road life, enhancing safety, and managing maintenance costs efficiently. 

Pavement inspections are typically conducted every four years. In Watsonville, the most recent inspections were in 2020. The frequency of these inspections can vary depending on factors such as pavement age, traffic volume, and previous maintenance records. Watsonville aims to maintain a regular inspection schedule to ensure optimal roadway quality. 

Pavement inspections are designed to minimize disruption to daily traffic. Major roads are surveyed for distress during off-peak hours, while residential and local roads are surveyed during peak traffic hours. No lane closures are necessary for these surveys, and we appreciate your patience and cooperation. 

Data from pavement inspections are analyzed to rank all city streets based on their condition and the urgency of needed repairs. This ranking system assists in prioritizing maintenance tasks and allocating budgets effectively, ensuring that critical repairs are addressed

A well-maintained Pavement Management Program optimizes resource use, extends pavement lifespan, reduces costly emergency repairs, and maintains road safety and comfort. It also supports economic efficiency by improving road conditions, which in turn reduces vehicle maintenance costs for residents.

Following the inspections, the collected data is analyzed to determine maintenance and repair priorities. These findings are integrated into the city’s Pavement Management Plan, guiding future projects and budgeting. Updates on planned works and other relevant information are communicated to the public through various channels, including the Our Town newsletter, social media, and our website.