JOINT RESEARCH PROJECT ON RUBBER ASPHALT CONCRETE

Released on July 11, 2005

The provincial government has launched an innovative research project with several key partners to examine the potential of crumb rubber asphalt concrete on Saskatchewan's highways.

"Seeking innovative solutions to challenges is the Saskatchewan way," Highways and Transportation Maynard Sonntag said. "Safe and efficient transportation drives economic development and is a top priority for the people and industry of Saskatchewan, and we continue to find new ways to work together to achieve our goals through the management of our provincial transportation systems."

The project is located on Highway 11, from the south junction of Highway 2 to Chamberlain, for a total of approximately 20 kilometres. The rubber asphalt, which is produced using crumb rubber manufactured from recycled scrap tires, will be used in the northbound and southbound driving lanes, with conventional asphalt for the passing lanes and shoulders.

Rubber asphalt concrete offers several benefits, including lower traffic noise, reduced pavement thickness, and longer pavement life versus conventional asphalt concrete. Road construction operations are essentially the same for both types.

The reduced thickness and longer life of rubber asphalt concrete allows it to become economically competitive to conventional materials in some cases. Its use also provides a market opportunity for recycled rubber produced in Saskatchewan.

"This is another example of how environmental and economic benefits can go hand in hand," Environment Minister David Forbes said. "Innovation is the Saskatchewan advantage. Projects like this demonstrate our commitment to a green and prosperous economy for the province of Saskatchewan."

The research project is the result of collaboration between Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation, the University of Regina, the Saskatchewan Scrap Tire Corporation, the City of Regina, the National Research Council and the Prairie Rubber Corporation.

For more information about road construction projects, and other Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation activities, visit the web site at: www.highways.gov.sk.ca.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jamie Shanks Highways and Transportation Regina Phone: (306) 787-4805

Traci Braaten Environment Regina Phone: (306) 787-1611