Sudbury's new pothole patching machine hits the streets
The state of the roads in Greater Sudbury is a popular topic of conversation, with potholes around the city a constant concern, and officials have high hopes for a new piece of equipment that is expected to help alleviate the problem.
"It’s no secret that for many residents, pothole patching and road maintenance is a top priority," said Greater Sudbury Mayor Brian Bigger in a news release. "City council is committed to investing in technology that creates a more efficient way to provide important services. I am very excited to see the results."
A new automated pothole patching machine called the Python 5000 was purchased by the city last year and staff have been learning how to use it since it arrived in November.
Usually, pothole patching in the Nickel City involves a crew of three to five people, several pieces of equipment and about four tonnes of asphalt per day. The new machine carries five tonnes of asphalt and can be operated by one person.
Only one person is needed to operate the City of Greater Sudbury's new pothole patching machine, The Python 5000. (Supplied)
"We are always testing new ways to provide more efficient service to the community," said Tony Cecutti, the city's general manager of growth and infrastructure in a news release. "The Python 5000 is a valuable service enhancement and I look forward to seeing how it performs in the coming months."
The machine can be used on main arterial roads and secondary collector routes in the winter with cold and recycled mix asphalt, the city said.
"In the summer, the machine will focus on four-lane roads as this will eliminate the need for additional staff to perform traffic control duties," the City of Greater Sudbury said in a news release.
The Python 5000 manufacturer claims the machine can do triple the amount of work that a traditional crew can do manually.
Residents can report potholes to the city by calling 311 or submitting a form online.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Doctors ask Liberal government to reconsider capital gains tax change
The Canadian Medical Association is asking the federal government to reconsider its proposed changes to capital gains taxation, arguing it will affect doctors' retirement savings.
Keeping these exotic pets is 'cruel' and 'dangerous,' Canadian animal advocates say
Canadian pet owners are finding companionship beyond dogs and cats. Tigers, alligators, scorpions and tarantulas are among some of the exotic pets they are keeping in private homes, which pose risks to public safety and animal welfare, advocates say.
Prince William and wife Kate thank public for birthday messages for son Louis
Prince William and his wife Kate thanked the public for their messages which had been sent to mark the sixth birthday of their youngest son Louis on Tuesday.
She was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father. Then life dealt her a blow
Anne Marie Cavner was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father, but then life dealt her a blow. From an unexpected loss to a host of new relationships, a DNA test changed her life, and she doesn't regret a thing.
How quietly promised law changes in the 2024 federal budget could impact your day-to-day life
The 2024 federal budget released last week includes numerous big spending promises that have garnered headlines. But, tucked into the 416-page document are also series of smaller items, such as promising to amend the law regarding infant formula and to force banks to label government rebates, that you may have missed.
Fire engulfs old Edmonton municipal airport hangar
A historical hangar at the former Edmonton municipal airport beside the NAIT main campus was on fire Monday night.
RCMP uncovers plot to sell drones and equipment to Libya
The RCMP says it has uncovered a ploy to sell Chinese drones and military equipment to Libya illegally.
Which foods have the most plastics? You may be surprised
'How much plastic will you have for dinner, sir? And you, ma'am?' While that may seem like a line from a satirical skit on Saturday Night Live, research is showing it's much too close to reality.
'Catch-and-kill' strategy to be a focus as testimony resumes in Trump hush money case
A veteran tabloid publisher was expected to return to the witness stand Tuesday in Donald Trump's historic hush money trial.