How Do Potholes Happen?

There are potholes, and then there are potholes. Last month (Dec. 19, 2017), a pothole the size of a couch opened up on U.S. 59, causing a seven-vehicle accident and major traffic delays. How does that happen?

Houston Matters learns about the science behind the formation of such large-scale holes on streets and highways from Roberto Ballerini, professor of civil engineering at the University of Houston and David Newcomb, Senior Research Engineer at the Texas A&M, Transportation Institute.

Then, we discuss the state of efforts to reduce potholes – both large and small – on Houston streets, something Mayor Sylvester Turner focused on heavily in the early months of his administration. Larius Hassen from the City of Houston Public Works Department joins us.