Adobe Stock / Rafael Ben-Ari
Adobe Stock / Rafael Ben-Ari

Roadwork for two major Michigan projects continues through the winter, with temperatures in the 30s increasing both risks and costs. Interstate 96 in Macomb County and I-75 in Wayne County require precautions to prevent fresh concrete from freezing; heaters must be placed to ensure the concrete sets properly, among other things. Protection costs add between 30-50% of the cost of material and labor. According to the American Concrete Institute's "Guide to Cold Weather Concreting" extra costs are largely due to lower worker productivity, necessary safety gear, and additional equipment required to keep a project on schedule.

"'We are keeping the concrete within the specifications for cold weather paving by any means needed,' says Joe Goodall, Vice President of Dan's Excavating Inc."

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