Drivers in Wright County should brace for minor delays as seasonal seal coating kicks off next week. The project, which covers about 27 miles of county highways and extends to several county park parking lots and trails, is set to start on May 13, 2024. A map detailing the affected areas is available for those interested in navigating the temporary disruptions that are in store.

Despite the construction, roads will stay open. Pearson Brothers, Inc., based out of Hanover, MN, is tasked with the seal coating work. To assist motorists, flaggers will be on site along with a pilot car control system funneling vehicles through the work zones. Motorists can freshen up on the pilot car procedures by visiting the Minnesota Department of Transportation's website before they hit the road.

The county insists that the inconvenience caused by seal coating, which is expected to wrap up by late May, is a necessary evil. The process—a combination of spraying asphalt cement and applying cover aggregate like pea rock or granite, topped with a fog coating of asphalt—aims to protect the pavement from the ravages of sun and water, which can lead to costly repairs down the line. It's a onesome way to waterproof the surface, slowing down the damage from oxidation and helping the asphalt remain pliable under the stress of changing weather and traffic.

For those with questions or in need of further details on this maintenance operation, county representatives are reachable at (763) 682-7383 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Wright County extends its thanks for the public's patience and understanding as they push through to complete this essential task, according to a statement obtained by the county's official release.