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01/09/2025 3:24 pm

construction site with orange barrels

Behind the Orange Barrels

Taking you behind the scenes of roadway construction!

Updated: Jan 9, 2025

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Roadway Design & Construction Site preparation Utility work Street resurfacing Pavement markings

Roadway Design & Construction


At Roadway Design and Construction, we focus on design, project management, and field services for various transportation projects. We work on streets, sidewalks, bridges, greenways, and other improvement projects throughout the City. 

To get a better grasp of how our construction projects come together, it's really helpful to know some of the main parts of the construction process.

Site preparation

clearing and grubbing

Clearing and grubbing

A process that prepares a site's foundation for construction by removing vegetation and other root structures.

The process

  • Clearing is the process of removing surface material like trees, grass, logs, and other debris from the construction site.
  • Grubbing refers to removing stumps, roots, and other underground systems that remain after clearing.

Why is clearing and grubbing necessary?

  • Ensures the construction site is safe and clean.
  • Provides an even foundation for remainder of construction.
  • Prevents environmental issues that could affect quality of work. 

Utility work

utility work

Potholing (daylighting)

Potholing, also known as daylighting is the process of digging test or small holes to locate underground utilities. This technique is used to identify any leaks, cracks, or damage. 

Benefits of potholing

  • Provides a direct line of sight for contractors
  • Helps contractors identify utility locations
  • Minimizes potential damage during the excavation process

Street resurfacing

milled road on Oberlin

Milling

  • Milling is the process of removing the top layer of a surface to prepare it for paving. 
  • This process is typically done at night to minimize traffic disruption and inconvenience for drivers.

 
 

Paving 

  • Paving is the process of laying new concrete or asphalt to create a firm, level surface for travel.  
  • This process helps create durable and smoother roads, driveways, sidewalks, and other infrastructure.

 
 

Why is milling and paving necessary?

  • Repairs damaged and uneven pavement surfaces  
  • Provides a smoother surface for road users
  • Restores a road's durability and lifespan 

Pavement markings

thermo striping

Thermoplastic striping

Thermoplastic striping is a pavement marking process, where contractors apply heated thermoplastic material onto a road surface. This is done to create roadway markings and symbols.

The process

  • Thermoplastic is typically heated to 400 degrees in a melt kettle.
  • A striping truck is used to apply the thermoplastic to the road surface.
  • Glass beads are dropped immediately into the thermoplastic; these beads make the stripes more reflective and visible to drivers at night.

Durability

  • Thermoplastic striping is highly durable, lasting anywhere between 3-5 years. 
  • Resistant to fading, chipping, and cracking; depending on weather conditions.
  • The air temperature must be at least 55°F to apply thermoplastic properly.

Contact

 

Division Manager
Sylvester Percival, PE
Sylvester.Percival@raleighnc.gov

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Lead Department:
Engineering Services
Service Categories:
Roadway Design and Construction