REGINA, Sask. — A Saskatoon-based company has been commissioned by the province to research new technologies that could result in more effective road improvements for less money.

Pavement Scientific International (PSI) says it has developed new technology that rebuilds and strengthens highways, and is much more cost-effective than traditional methods.

"This is promising technology that will help us to rebuild more Saskatchewan roads at less cost without compromising on the quality of work," says Highways and Transportation Minister, Mark Wartman. "I am pleased to see this agreement go through."

A five-year deal has been inked, which will see 350 kilometres of road strengthened using alternative solutions. The process involves mixing existing subgrade soils with special blended materials. Teracem is mixed with the existing surface, granular and subgrade material. Then, the blended layer is watered and compacted with different thicknesses of gravel placed over the strengthened subgrade. Finally, it is sealed with a dust-free surface.

"Many of Saskatchewan’s highways were not designed to handle the heavy loads and high volumes of traffic they are experiencing today," says Wartman. "By seriously exploring these innovations, we are building a better future for highways and roads in Saskatchewan."