Time for Pothole Patrol

The freeze-thaw cycles of winter are taking a toll on the roads. But don't call offices to report crevasses and potholes.

Townships are not required to maintain roads and in Canton, such work belongs to Wayne County's Department of Public Services, specifically the roads division, which has a 24-hour toll-free hotline 888-ROAD CREW (888-762-3739) for reporting damaged roads. The county may reimburse for vehicle damage caused by road hazards. The Michigan Department of Transportation has a similar program.

Wayne County is responsible for more than 250 miles of the 373 miles of roads in Canton. Individual homeowner associations maintain more than 85 miles of roads and the state is responsible for the remaining 33.57 miles. The township does not pave or resurface roads, either, but homeowners can make an agreement for to pay a special assessment to the township for residential street maintenance, according to a statement issued this week by the township's municipal services department.

"By not owning the roads, Canton avoids legal liability," the township's statement said. "Regional maintenance operations on the road system also save money. For example, Wayne County buys supplies, vehicles, salt, etc. in bulk, therefore providing more services for less money than the township would pay on its own."

The township does offer road construction project information via Facebook and Twitter, at facebook.com/cantonmsd and twitter.com/cantonmsd.