Montreal's Pothole Battle: New Machines & Teams

This is Corey with the story, and here's what is making news across Canada right now.

Montreal is revving up its fight against potholes after a record number of complaints this winter.

City leaders announced plans to buy two new automated repair machines,

bringing their total fleet to six and create two dedicated teams of.

24 blue collar workers each.

They're also adding $6 million to tackle the problem through various fixes,

though the new machines and teams won't start until next year.

Earlier this month, the city ran an eight-day repair blitz with private contractors,

patching 15,000 potholes by hand.

Officials admit this is just the short-term patch,

as warmer spring weather could make things worse with the thaw.

Car machines have been fragile, with two sideline for repairs, but expected back soon.

Leaders like executive committee chair Claude Pinyard say the harsh winter damage droids badly,

and they're aiming for better long-term solutions.

The new teams will focus on main streets, help predict costs, and avoid pass issues

like failed contract bids due to weather limits.

Meanwhile, Mayor Saraya Martinez-Ferrata wrapped up a trip to South Korea,

checking out innovative ideas like a starfish-based additive to cut road.

Salt Corrosion

This summer, the city plans to resurface 67 kilometers of streets,

targeting spots like Notre Dame Street East and Papano Avenue.

Opposition members welcome the moves,

but push for more paving over just-spilling holes,

saying it's key to real results.

With these steps in place,

Montreal hopes to smooth out the rough ride ahead.