A rise in temperatures this winter has also caused a rise in potholes on Winnipeg streets.
Rudy Epp owns Rudy’s Auto Service. He said profits are up about 2 per cent from this time last year. A big chunk of that business is from pothole related damage.
“Temperatures are fluctuating quite a bit. So of course, the moisture runs into the potholes and freezes, making the potholes bigger. So the more that happens, the more money unfortunately that we make,” Epp said.
On Epp’s estimation, invoice totals rise about $100 around this time of year. The most common repairs are to vehicle suspension and steering.
“I’ve got a four wheel drive in the back that we just spent almost $2,000 on. But it’s pretty common to see upwards of $700 to $1000 this time of year,” he explained.
Winnipeg driver Marty Raymond said he’s already replace three tires this winter, costing him about $1800. He believes more should be done to keep Winnipeg roads in better shape.
“It’s pretty obvious that there’s a very bad pothole problem in this city,” Raymond said, “I think the provincial government definitely has to change, and I think money has to be used more efficiently and put into the resources where it’s needed.”
The City of Winnipeg said patching crews have been out periodically this winter. If you spot a pothole, you can report it by calling or emailing 311, or through the city’s 311 app.
