On Thursday, May 18, the Ocean Shores Public Works Department will test a new method for street repairs at as many as seven different sites in the city. Motorists should expect short term lane closures and other restrictions, with only one work zone active at a time.

The process is “polyurethane injection” and is being touted as an economical alternative to cutting and replacing large sections of asphalt. The Ocean Shores City Council on April 10 voted 5-2 to spend up to $15,000 on a roadway subgrade soil stabilization pilot test.

The tests will be conducted by Uretek USA, a Houston-based company that uses technology originally developed in Finland. Their patented process involves soil stabilization and pavement lifting to effect roadway repairs.

The test has attracted observers from municipalities including Hoquiam, Elma and Olympia, and the observers will visit Ocean Shores to see the process first-hand.

Work is planned to begin around 8 a.m. Thursday, starting with a sizeable dip in the pavement at 121 Canal Drive SE. The planned work will impact one lane of travel resulting in alternating traffic controlled by flaggers. Short term closures may be required for adjusting work zone traffic control. Low volume roads may be closed with detours established. Only one work zone will be active at a time.

Other pilot testing sites are: 1073 Jetty View Ave.; 560 Marine view Dr. SW; 865 Ocean Shores Blvd. SW; 479 Sportsman St. SW; 155 N Razor Clam Dr. SW; 365 Dolphin Ave. NE. Additional information on this supplier’s product and services can be found at www.uretekusa.com.