A limited number of recycled tire asphalt project grants are now available to counties that wish to test the durability of the material in future paving projects. The Energy and Environment announced today that the second round of grant funding can be used for either chip seal or thin asphalt overlay pavement projects.
Gary Logston is the manager of the recycling and local assistance branch in the Kentucky Division of Waste Management. He says the rubber-modified asphalt is expected to be more durable than standard applications.
“Right now the cost is a little bit higher for the rubber-modified, if this market develops and there is a lot of use for this material we think the price increase would be neutralized in the future.” Logston said.
Rubber-modified asphalt can increase skid resistance, road life and noise reduction. Five counties were selected last year for the grant, including Trigg County in western Kentucky. An equal number are expected to qualify this year.
Counties may apply either for funding for up to 24,000 square yards of chip seal paving or up to 12,000 square yards of asphalt overlay paving. Counties may not apply for both options.
Successful applicants will be required to complete an equivalent project on a similar section of road using standard asphalt, at their own expense, in order to compare the performance of standard versus rubber-modified asphalt.
Grant applications are due June 5.
Kentucky Waste Tire Trust Fund, which receives $1 from every new tire sold in the Commonwealth, provides the grant funding.
