Frequently Asked Questions


Why is there a need for timely maintenance of the city's streets?

Through timely maintenance of streets, we are better able to provide safe roads on which you can travel. Studies have shown pavement conditions worsen at an increasing rate as the pavement gets older. Restoration of pavement near the end of its service life will typically cost four to five times more than preventive routine maintenance.

What types of street treatments are available?

A variety of street treatments are available. We choose the appropriate treatment based on value and street condition. The treatments include granite seal, crack seal, micro seal, mill and overlay, reconstruction, rejuvenator and ultra-thin bonded asphalt surface.

Description of street treatments

What is different about Lenexa’s granite seal versus traditional chip seal?

Chip seal surface treatments vary from one city to another. We have sourced materials that meet our high expectations. We use a higher-quality asphalt oil and a fine granite aggregate — rocks crushed to a smaller size. The resulting surface is smoother, a bit sparkly, and looks more like traditional asphalt than the chip seals used by other local cities.

Does a granite seal look and feel different than asphalt?

Our granite seal has larger rock pieces than asphalt, so it will have a rougher surface. But as the streets stabilize and the rock settles over time, they will look and drive more like traditional asphalt pavements. On warm days, the aggregate chips will continue to work their way into the underlying asphalt, reducing the roughness of the road.

How long do I need to stay off the freshly treated streets?

  • Concrete: Typically, three days is required until motor vehicles are allowed to drive on it.  

  • Micro surface: Please wait until the contractor has removed all cones and barricades – the drying time for these treatments varies based on weather conditions.  

  • Granite seal: You can drive on a granite seal right after it is applied. Please drive slowly and avoid braking sharply within the first few hours.

  • Ultra-thin bonded asphalt: You can drive on UBAS right after it is applied.

Why does the new curb color not match?

The new curb was sprayed with a curing compound. This compound has a white pigment for installation. The "whiteness" of the curb will fade over time.

Why is the City replacing good curb?

Much of the concrete used before 2002 consisted of soft limestone aggregate, which caused cracking. Most of our driveways and curbs have signs of this. Once the cracking occurs, the only fix is to remove and replace the curb. If we do not replace it at the time we are there, it will be completely deteriorated before we return the next cycle.

Why does the city grind sidewalks?

As sidewalk settles or is raised by tree roots, trip hazards are created. Generally, anything over 3/4 inch is considered a trip hazard. This does not warrant complete replacement of the sidewalk; instead, the grinding is an effective way to remove these trip hazards.

What do I do if my sprinkler system is damaged?

Our contractor for the Pavement Management Program will make the repairs. You will not be reimbursed if you choose to have your own contractor make the repairs. Please submit a service request.

Will the city sod my yard?

Lawns damaged by construction will be seeded. You should water the newly placed seed at a rate of 3 inches per week in five or six applications per week, until the roots of the grass are anchored in place.