Deerfoot Trail

[shane_c]

Why is it that Deerfoot Trail, south of 17th Ave is really bumpy. When was the last time it was repaved? Any idea if it'll be smoothed out any time soon? It doesn't seem as bad north of 17th.

[JD]

The bumpy section you describe is actually concrete, which is less flexible and prone to cracks and fissures, but maintains its shape for the most part. The section north of 17th (and actually south of the Bow Bottom/Anderson/Deerfoot interchange as well) is asphalt, which is actually a highly viscous liquid that will absorb forces (like heavy trucks), but needs repaving on a regular basis.

I don't know why they use concrete over that section, but I imagine there's a good reason for it...

[@theCBE]

First time I ever drove that section of deerfoot I actually thought I had a flat tire because of the road

[Tron_fdc]

Is that the section where you can let go of your steering wheel and the ruts in the road guide your car?

Gotta love the unintentional autopilot......

[Ironhorse]

Originally posted by JD@May 10 2005, 10:51 AM
I don't know why they use concrete over that section, but I imagine there's a good reason for it...

Let's just say that the City learned a valuable lesson as to why US-style concrete highways don't work in Canada...

Frost heaving makes a mess out of it.

[I-Hate-Hulse]

I also understand they spent millions to groove the concrete recently with special saws, to increase traction in icy conditions.