Residents and motorists in Doña Ana's District 5 should prepare for a little extra traffic patience starting next week. The Road Department is setting sights on Trails End Road for chip sealing operations beginning Monday, Sept. 30, aiming for an Oct. 4 completion date. As reported by Doña Ana County, expect the road to pare down to a single lane but remain navigable during the maintenance work.
Work on Trails End Road will involve a chip seal process, a form of pavement preservation that includes the application of a heated asphalt liquid, immediately followed by the laying down of small chips. This treatment is a boon for asphalt, helping shield the pavement from the sun and water, increasing skid resistance, and addressing minor damages like small cracks. All this, ideally, prolongs the road's lifespan. Drivers should heed the maintenance signs, slow down around the work areas, and follow the directions from on-site traffic control personnel.
County officials are calling for the public's cooperation to ensure that the chip sealing runs smoothly and on schedule. "Motorists are encouraged to reduce their speed around maintenance areas, pay attention to signs and follow the guidance of road traffic control staff," the County indicated, stressing the importance of safety for both the road crews and drivers passing through. Baton down for some slight inconveniences, but keep in mind it's in aid of a smoother and safer driving experience down the line.
