Asphalt Project, Phase II, Complete

Thurs, May 15th, 9:15pm - Hello, SLE, the second phase of the asphalt project was completed today. Final grading was done in all areas where the ground asphalt and base mix was distributed and roughly graded last week on the most in-need sections along the back of CDA and Fernan.

As noted previously, we had to jump on getting the base down before the first rain that night. Then we needed to wait for as much rain as possible to take advantage of the moisture to then track over the base (for greater compaction) and smooth-out everything as well as possible.

We are happy with the initial results, which I drove again tonight. We'll continue to incorporate more of this material as we can. It won’t always be free. But we did want to take advantage of that opportunity for a test-run and have received a lot positive feedback.

That said, I’d like to address some negative comments, particularly that I’m a liar by someone with an axe to grind.

I don’t have the time or desire to play internet games with people like that. The truth is we got a free combination of ground asphalt and base (rock) that could easily have been sold. But knowing that I want to try some different materials here, it was offered to us, not only for free but with 10 hours of free initial grading, and the material was brought in at our usual and significantly discounted rate of $125/hr. Other trucking services are priced at $185 (CDA Paving) and $150 (Basin).

So, that was a great deal for us ALL.

I honestly can’t imagine wanting the roads to improve then going on social media to gripe no matter what is being done to improve them, and even complaining when new things are being tested that the wide majority of the community wants to try. But some people will always look for the negative while others will continue to focus on serving our community.

Bottom line: I back my crew and the hard work they’re doing for Spirit Lake East, and appreciate the board’s support, and yours. If you have something to say to me or about me, feel free to contact me directly. You can find me at roads@spiritlakeeast.org.

I’ll share project pics tomorrow. It’s been another long day. Thanks and have a good night. - Jon Dore, Road Chair