THUNDER BAY — Since 2017, the Python 5000 has been fixing potholes all around the city, but – like any piece of machinery – it sometimes requires repairs.
The City of Thunder Bay's $360,000 machine went out of service a few weeks ago, and still isn't ready to leave the garage.
Social media posts show numerous motorists have noticed its absence this spring as they navigate city streets while trying to avoid damaging their vehicles.
A spokesperson for the city said the Python 5000 was pulled off the road a few weeks ago after some issues developed with its front roller due to normal wear and tear.
It's not expected to be back in operation until sometime next week.
But Ian Spoljarich, the city's roads manager, received some good news with the announcement that hot-mix asphalt plants have just opened.
He said this is earlier than usual, as the plants typically don't start up until the third week in May.
"We're currently ahead of schedule with our pothole patching efforts," Spoljarich said. "With access to hot mix now available, crews have already started filling potholes, and residents can expect to see a noticeable improvement in road conditions over the coming days and weeks."
Hot mix asphalt tends to stay in place longer than cold mix asphalt.
