Calumet County Earns Road Building Award

Highway Department recognized for utilizing sustainable construction practices

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 29, 2022
Contact: Brandon Strand (608) 255-3114

Madison – The Wisconsin Asphalt Pavement Association (WAPA) announced today that Calumet County was the recipient of the 2022 Local Government Award for advancing innovation in asphalt pavements. The Highway Department was recognized at a ceremony during the association’s 63rd Annual Conference at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells.

Calumet County generally uses traditional roadway rehabilitation techniques for most projects, however CTH PP from Potter to Brillion was so deteriorated that other options were required. The existing road presented a unique set of challenges and the county wanted a cost-effective way to reconstruct the concrete roadway that would mitigate and eliminate reflective cracking. In consultation with Northeast Asphalt and Antigo Construction, Calumet County decided to rubblize the old concrete and turn it into aggregate base for a brand new, smooth asphalt road.

“For years, WAPA members have recycled asphalt pavement and concrete aggregate from old roads for use in new construction projects,” said Brandon Strand, WAPA Executive Director. “This practice reduces cost and environmental impact making it a proven sustainable solution.”

Furthermore, reclaimed asphalt was also crushed on site to strengthen the base along with new material for the driving surface to ensure durability so the new roadway performed as desired. “We commend Calumet County for utilizing sustainable construction practices to ensure cost savings while improving infrastructure for the traveling public,” Strand concluded.

Asphalt is 100% recyclable and the most recycled product in the country and Calumet County has taken advantage of asphalt sustainability. Asphalt pavements also require less energy to produce than other paving materials, and asphalt production emits fewer greenhouse gases.

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“Asphalt. Wisconsin rides on us.” Established in 1948, WAPA is a statewide, non-profit organization representing the interests of the asphalt industry on a wide range of issues related to pavement design, construction, maintenance, specifications, costs, marketing, and policy at the local, state, and federal levels. WAPA’s mission is to promote quality asphalt pavements that are safe, sustainable, durable, and cost-effective.

For more information, please visit www.wispave.org or contact Brandon at strand@wispave.org