NewUrbanStreets

In my opinion the key to a long-life concrete or brick unit paver surface–assuming the foundation structure is properly built–is re-sanding. As discussed in other articles at this blog the sand is the “glue” that “locks” the individual pavers together.

Concrete unit pavers are getting a bad reputation in some circles as they have not provided a care-free pavement. But, there is no such thing as care-free pavement. Some just need more care than others and that is the case with concrete unit pavers–particularly in high traffic situations in a wet environment. Ironically loose sand is what holds them together.

You need to seriously consider the type of traffic the concrete unit pavers in crosswalks must support. Keep in mind that in many urban streeets the right-side curb lane is used by buses and face a much greater range and frequency of heavy loads than do the other lanes. In addition, I believe, the crosswalk on the approach side of the intersection experiences a greater load from the buses–and to some extent cars–because when the signal changes to green the vehicles are accelerating harder as they cross over those pavers than when they cross the paver crosswalk on the other side of the intersection.

Concrete unit pavers in crosswalks make a distinctive pathway and adds a classy touch to the intersection. By using different colors and placement  patterns  they can be a memorable place-making amenity. This post and several others that will follow will address placement configuration and issues that drive up maintenance cost.