Slurry Seal Program
The Slurry Seal Program allows the City to preserve existing paved streets by applying a thin layer of asphalt. Slurry seal is a petroleum-based emulsion product mixed with fine aggregate rock. It slows down the aging process caused by ultraviolet rays, vehicle traffic wear, effects of temperature changes, or the loss and/or stripping of the asphalt. Slurry also significantly reduces vehicle road noise. Using slurry in conjunction with a crack seal program provides the most cost-effective method of preventing premature aging. Slurry sealing is usually done annually from July to September, and a schedule is published here once it is established.
Slurry seal is applied between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Once applied, the slurry will dry in about two hours. All work is dependent upon favorable weather conditions. If a street is not sealed on the date specified due to equipment failure or rainy conditions, it will be rescheduled. Residents will be re-notified 48 hours in advance of the new date by the contractor. Weekend work may occur in the event of equipment failures or rainy weather. Call 541-754-1772 for a recorded message of schedule changes.
Traffic and on-street parking are prohibited while the work is being performed. Residents on affected streets will receive a mailing with a detailed schedule of streets to be slurry-sealed prior to the beginning of work. NO PARKING signs will be posted at least 48 hours in advance of the day slurry-sealing will occur on a street. The signs will state the exact closure date and time period. When looking for a place to park while a street is being worked on, check the times and dates carefully on any signs encountered – they might not apply to "today"!
2021 Slurry Seal Program
- Dates to be determined.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is slurry seal?
Slurry seal is a petroleum-based emulsion product mixed with fine aggregate rock to provide a new surface to an existing asphalt street. It slows down aging and significantly reduces vehicle road noise.
Using slurry in conjunction with a crack seal program provides the most cost-effective method to prevent premature aging. First, sealant is applied to any cracks in the street to prevent water from entering the sub-base and causing further deterioration. Then a layer of slurry is applied, usually one year later.
Is it safe?
When the slurry is dry, it is safe. When it is first applied, the slurry is in a liquid form consisting of asphalt and rock. Because liquid asphalt is potentially hazardous to health and is very difficult to remove from skin, shoes and floor coverings, please keep children from playing near the street until the slurry material dries. Pets should be kept from running free during the slurry application for their safety.
Will access to my street be affected?
During the slurry seal application, access to your street will be interrupted for a maximum of ten (10) hours — for one day only — unless the contractor is delayed due to equipment failure or rainy conditions. You may not park or drive on the street from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The post office, garbage service, and 911 emergency dispatch will be notified before work begins. We do not expect any interruption of mail delivery, garbage collection or emergency services.
Why shouldn't I water my lawn or wash my car?
Water will damage both the appearance and sealing capabilities of the slurry. Please refrain from watering lawns, washing cars, or engaging in similar activities that may cause water to enter the street on the day your street is slurry-sealed.
