See a Pothole? Give MassDOT a Call

Pothole season is here, and MassDOT crews are out today and every day this time of year throughout the Commonwealth, repairing potholes that can damage vehicles and delay traffic.  We appreciate the public's help each year in telling us about pothole problems so that repairs are made as quickly as possible.

Just today MassDOT is repairing potholes during midday hours on the I-93 northbound bridge decks between Exit 15 in Boston to Exit 33 by the Medford/Stoneham line. 

Potholes result from the freeze-thaw cycle.  Water from snow and rain seeps into small cracks in the roadway surface.  As temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands, making the cracks bigger.  Additional freezing and thawing will make these cracks larger until eventually, potholes form.
Heavy traffic, pavement age, vehicle weights, and snow and ice operations also contribute to the problem.

Crews make two types of repairs, depending on temperature and road conditions.  A temporary "cold patch" is used at lower temperatures.  Hot mix asphalt is applied at higher temperatures as a long-term fix.

MassDOT works closely with public safety officers and city and town officials to monitor potholes.  We also receive reports from drivers every day.  If you see a pothole, please call MassDOT at 617-973-7800.   We'll get a crew out to repair it as soon as possible.  MassDOT online contact information is here.

Comments

[Car Transportation]

Yeah. Route 24 is like a mine field.

[Linda O.]

Terrible potholes on 93N in the Medford/Stoneham area at the overpasses. Be careful...damaged a tire at one of them!
==========================================
Your report is appreciated and has been forwarded to the pothole repair crews in that district area. They are out each day this time of year making temporary and permanent pothole repairs. Thank you.
============================================
MassDOT Update: Linda, we're told the work on the northbound side will resume very shortly for a permanent fix. In the meantime, our contractor will review the bridges in the interim and make any temporary repairs to any bad spots on the decks. thanks again for contacting us.

[David Gianino]

I ride motorcycles and NONE of the major roadways in Mass are safe for riding. 3+ inch deep holes all around 95/93/128/Rt 3. Its like I am riding a slolom wherever I go. Unacceptable.

[John B.]

The Route 28 Bridge in Lawrence (Both sides of bridge, But Southbound lane is especially bad). Thanks.

[d]

westtfield ma the whole city!

[Jg]

All of route 24, Thanks