By Mike Rogers, Peoria director of public works

This year, the City has experienced frequent snow storms and heavy rains, causing more than usual potholes in our streets.  Since mid-February, City crews have been repairing potholes around the clock.

Potholes are formed by the freeze–and–thaw weather cycles. These cycles help produce potholes when icy water and snow seep into concrete and asphalt, solidify and then expand to cause the cracks to widen. The moisture continues to soften the asphalt and cannot support the weight of passing vehicles which causes the asphalt to break. As vehicles continue to pass over weakened spots, potholes form. Dramatic shifts in temperature similar to this year’s winter can increase damage and enlarge the potholes.

The Public Works Department is encouraging citizens to report problem areas to the Peoria Public Works Department. We have several ways listed below to report a pothole.

• Call our office (309) 494-8800 during business hours Monday through Friday, 7:30 am – 4:30 pm.
• Contact the Peoria Cares office by visiting the City’s website at www.peoiragov.org/peoriacares, via email at peoriacares@peorigov.org, or by calling directly at (309) 494-CARE (309-494-2273).
• Or submit a report with an iPhone or iPad using the Peoria Cares iOS app. Go to the City website at www.peoriagov.org, click the PeoriaCares button on the right side of the main page. Click the AppStore button to begin your download.

After downloading the app, you can send photos of the pothole with the location.

If you have any damage to your vehicle, you must contact the Vericlaim Office at (877) 214-5819 or fax your information to 877-369-8073 in order to submit a claim. Vericlaim is the City’s insurance adjuster that investigates whether or not a claim is accepted.

As Peoria’s Public Works Director, I appreciate the patience of citizens and visitors during this period. Also, please slow down and be cautious when driving past road crews repairing potholes.