By Sherry Devlin/Missoula Current

Pothole season has commenced, Missoula Mayor John Engen declared Monday night.

Problem is, it’s still sanding, deicing, plowing and sweeping season.

“It’s a little challenging out there right now,” the mayor told several dozen local citizens in the room for Monday night’s City Council meeting – and countless others watching the live broadcast on MCAT.

“If you see a puddle, there’s a good chance there is a hole at the bottom of it,” Engen said. “There are some small prices to be paid for living in paradise, and potholes are among them.”

City crews are on duty around the clock, he advised. In fact, workers closed the Russell Street Bridge at 11 p.m. Monday to fix a number of extremely problematic holes in the pavement.

The same scenario occurred on Monday afternoon on the Madison Street Bridge, where a contractor is working to repair the failing structure. Even while the larger project is underway, potholes must be filled.

“That will be a continuing issue,” Engen said of the tire-swallowing gaps. “If you see a crater and happen to fall in one, call us and we’ll come pull you out.”

The mayor and council members thanked residents for their patience during this season of weather-related road repairs.

“All winters have their challenges,” Engen said, “and this one moreso.”

 

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