In a sure harbinger of spring, PennDOT announced today that it has begun using hot mix asphalt to patch potholes.

During colder weather, crews use a cold mixture that provides only a temporary fix. "The availability of hot mix now allows us to better address the pothole problems in the region," District 11 executive Dan Cessna said.

Crews using the hot mix will work tonight to repair potholes on the ramp from northbound Route 8 to the Highland Park Bridge near the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium. The ramp will be closed from midnight until 5 a.m. Thursday. Motorists will be detoured via the 62nd Street Bridge.

PennDOT invited drivers to report potholes and other maintenance issues to 1-800-FIX-ROAD (349-7623), providing as much detail as possible about the specific location.

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