The longitudinal joint can be the most vulnerable part of roads. Air voids caused by joint construction are prone to water intrusion, and the resulting road deterioration causes issues for road construction engineers, applicators, and the driving public. Our Milestone team is working to improve this problem on U.S. 30 between State Road 55 and State Road 51 in Lake County, IN. We are helping to protect the longitudinal joint on U.S. 30 with J-Band ®, a void reducing asphalt membrane (VRAM) created by Asphalt Materials, Inc., a Heritage Construction + Materials company.  

During road construction, VRAM significantly reduces air voids within the longitudinal joint from the bottom up, which prevents deterioration and preserves the pavement.  VRAM is applied along the intermediate asphalt layer where the surface asphalt joints, the space between two sections of asphalt, will be placed. As the surface layer is paved and compacted, the VRAM is reheated and migrates up into the joint to fill any voids. Once the VRAM cools, it rehardens and forms a seal in the asphalt joint, eliminating the need for joint adhesive often used to bond and seal joints in the surface.  

Along with J-Band, this project employs another innovative technology to enhance road durability, including a spray jet paver that applies a specialized emulsion and sprays tackifier agent immediately before the paver screed passes.  

“The combination of these efforts, along with J-Band will significantly increase the lifespan of U.S. 30,” says Milestone Project Manager Jeff Briggs.  

The project encompasses over 20 lane miles and requires the removal and replacement of 80,000 tons of asphalt. The western segment of the project has been completed, with current efforts focused on pavement markings and traffic signal loops. The eastern segment is scheduled to commence in early August, with substantial completion targeted for November 2024. 

Our on-site team includes one Milestone mainline paving crew, two Javelina milling machines, one Milestone milling support crew, one Milestone traffic crew and up to six flaggers. Paving Superintendent Joey Reyes has ensured the paving operation progresses safely and efficiently, while Project Superintendent Kris Saeuberlich has effectively managed traffic maintenance to protect both the public and our crews. Given the proximity to a major hospital, nightly coordination is also required with Lake County’s 911 dispatch center. 

Improvements on this project are completed during the night to ensure the safety of crew members. Located on both sides of I-65, this project is particularly challenging and extra safety precautions are in place due to high traffic volumes, averaging over 60,000 vehicles per day. 

This is an exciting project in which our innovative products get the opportunity to shine. Thank you to our crew for the dedication to quality and safety and to our partners on the U.S. 30 project. Remember to slow down and stay alert in work zones, not only for the safety of yourself but for the safety of our crew members working to bring improvements to your community.  

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