Eco-friendly Paving Underway on Charleston County’s Charlie Hall Boulevard
In an endeavor to preserve the environment and ensure road stability, the Charleston County Public Works in South Carolina is progressing with its eco-friendly road paving project. After successfully completing work on the Patriots Point road, the focus is now on Charlie Hall Boulevard, situated in West Ashley.
Hot-In-Place Recycling: A Forward-Thinking Initiative
Utilizing a method called hot-in-place recycling, Charleston County Public Works is not just repairing the roads but also emphasizing the importance of recycling. The procedure, though new to the Charleston County area, is an established practice in the paving industry.
“It’s new to Charleston County, but not new to paving,” Mackenzie Kelly, a pavement manager from Charleston County Public Works, said.
Environmentally Friendly and Cost-Effective Process
The process involves use of substantial propane heaters that heat the asphalt, followed by scarring and mixing approximately an inch of the existing asphalt. The recycled asphalt is then overlaid with a fresh layer of asphalt, about two inches thick.
“We’re recycling it right in place and then we’re gonna overlay it with a new asphalt, about two inches of that all in one continuous train,” Kelly explained.
The environmental benefits are matched by the cost savings achieved. The project is funded through the transportation sales tax and saves taxpayers’ money being utilized on municipal and state secondary roads.
“We’re able to save money by recycling that one inch of asphalt,” Kelly noted. “We’re not having to haul it away and bring it back. We’re able to recycle the one inch and then bring in only two inches.”
Enhanced Road Longevity and Performance
The hot-in-place recycling technique provides a substantial thickness of new roadway surface, extending the road life and preventing future cracks. This method not only ensures the sustainability of our environment but also improves the driving experience for citizens.
Further Information
The paving project taking place on Charlie Hall Boulevard is being executed during the evening hours and could take up to two weeks, depending on the length of the road. Through this initiative, Charleston County is a pioneering example of how cities can promote sustainability while improving their infrastructural facilities.
