The first day of spring has arrived, and with it comes the start of Brandon’s annual pothole repair season. City crews are already on the streets tackling some of the worst‑affected areas as freeze‑thaw cycles continue to break down road surfaces across the community.
This year, priority repair routes include 26th Street, 34th Street, and Park Avenue, where one or two repair trucks—each staffed with two workers—will be out on weekdays filling potholes. During the early spring period, crews use a cold‑patch asphalt mix, which allows repairs to be made even in fluctuating temperatures.
Not all roads fall under the City’s responsibility. Major routes such as 18th Street, parts of First Street, and sections of Victoria and Richmond Avenues are maintained by the Province of Manitoba. Repairs on those corridors are handled by provincial crews.
Residents who encounter potholes are encouraged to report them using the City of Brandon’s online pothole reporting form, a quick and convenient tool available on the municipal website. Reports help crews track problem areas and prioritize repairs.
Photo credits: Frank McGwire
In addition to potholes, spring thaw brings another challenge: drainage issues. Melting snow often overwhelms storm drains, leading to water pooling on streets and at intersections. City crews are currently working across Brandon to clear blocked drains and address water‑covered roadways.
Motorists can also report flooded streets or significant potholes by calling the City’s 24‑hour Pothole Hotline at 204‑729‑2200. The line is monitored so issues can be dispatched to crews, though callers will not receive a return call.
The City is reminding drivers to use caution around repair crews and to slow down when approaching water‑covered areas, as hidden potholes can cause damage or pose safety risks.
