Each year, CDOT resurfaces dozens of miles of residential streets--smaller streets that serve neighborhoods.

Street-resurfacing locations are chosen by the local alderman as part of his or her annual "menu" of local infrastructure improvements for their ward.

The residential street resurfacing process has four main steps:

1. removal of the top 2-3 inches of old asphalt (sometimes called "grinding")
2. adjustment of utility structures (manholes, vaults, etc) to meet the height of the new roadway surface
3. placement of the new asphalt
4. placement of new pavement markings (lane lines, stop bars, crosswalks, etc.)

The entire process takes between 2-3 weeks.  CDOT posts orange construction signs indicating parking restrictions during the project.  These restrictions typically run between 7 a.m. and 3:30 to 4 p.m.  On construction days, vehicles parked in the work area will be relocated to the next available block so that work can proceed (no tickets will be issued).

Note: There is always a gap between each step of the resurfacing process, especially steps 1 and 2, as each step requires different equipment, materials and personnel.   Many of the utility structures belong to private utility companies who are responsible for their adjustment.  CDOT coordinates closely with these private companies to keep this gap as short as possible.  However, several days may elapse between steps.  Be assured that CDOT has not forgotten about the project.

If you have questions about which streets in your ward are scheduled for resurfacing, you may contact your alderman's office.