Drivers in Grand Junction, brace yourselves — the city’s annual chipseal season is underway. The 2025 program officially began Monday, and crews are already out treating road surfaces in key parts of the city. The work’s going to last a few weeks, so expect a bit of dust, some parking restrictions, and hopefully — much smoother roads.

Key Zones in Focus for This Year’s Work

The main focus for this year’s chipseal operation stretches across a familiar grid: the area from North Avenue down to Grand Avenue, and from First Street out to I-70 Business Loop. If you’re driving or parking in that zone, keep an eye out for signage — and road crews.

This year’s work follows the city’s usual summer maintenance rhythm, targeting streets in greatest need of surface treatment.

City engineers say the process is about keeping roads in good shape, not full-on repaving. Chipsealing is quicker, cheaper, and less invasive than major road reconstructions. And done right, it can add years to a street’s lifespan.

What Exactly Is Chipsealing?

It’s not exactly glamorous, but here’s the gist:

Chipseal is a surface treatment that combines liquid asphalt with crushed stone. It’s sprayed and spread over existing pavement. Once applied, the material seals small cracks, creates a skid-resistant surface, and protects the underlying road from water and weather.

Some drivers complain it looks rough or messy — especially in the first few days — but the end result is a smoother, safer ride that lasts.

Expect some loose gravel right after the application. Crews usually sweep excess rock within 24-48 hours.

Parking Restrictions and Driver Warnings

Grand Junction Public Works has issued a heads-up for residents: don’t park on designated sides of the street while crews are working.

Temporary “No Parking” signs will be posted ahead of chipseal operations in each zone. Vehicles left in violation could be towed. City officials say cooperation is essential for getting the work done quickly and avoiding unnecessary delays.

There’s no full street closures planned — yet. But minor traffic disruptions are likely. Motorists are encouraged to slow down in work zones and take alternate routes when possible.

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No injuries or major complaints have been reported so far.

Why Chipsealing Still Matters

It might not be glamorous road work, but chipsealing actually delivers big benefits for a small budget. Here’s a quick look at why cities like Grand Junction do it:

• Extends pavement life by sealing cracks and preventing moisture damage

• Improves traction, especially in wet or icy weather

• Costs far less than full repaving (often a fraction of the price)

• Reduces long-term maintenance and need for bigger repairs

City officials argue it’s not just about fixing potholes. It’s about managing pavement like an investment — taking small steps now to avoid huge bills later.

Schedule and Timeline

The work began on Monday, June 6, and is expected to continue through mid-July. Here’s a rough outline:

The schedule may shift slightly depending on weather or equipment delays. Residents are encouraged to check the city’s website or local news outlets for weekly updates.