Responding to a 75% increase in the cost of hot mix asphalt (HMA) since 2002, the City of Shoreline just north of Seattle, Washington has instituted a highly successful program of Bituminous Surface Treatments (BSTs) (Chip Seals) for its 345 lane-miles of public streets.
The program, which has been well received by both the City Council and local residents, has been able to increase roadway remaining service lives (RSLs) by up to 10 years for about one quarter of the cost of asphalt overlays, while still providing smooth pavements.