The Washtenaw County Road Commission (WCRC) will sealcoat approximately 26 lane miles of county roads this summer as part of its 2026 countywide maintenance program.
Dexter Chelsea Road, between the Chelsea city limits and Parker Road in Lima Township, is scheduled for chip sealing June 18-22, with fog sealing to follow on July 26. Drivers can expect lane restrictions during that time. Other nearby locations affected in Lima, Sylvan, Scio, and Dexter Townships are listed on the WCRC website: wcroads.org/wcrc-project/countywide-sealcoat/
The $1.2 million program is funded through the Four-Year Countywide Roads and Non-Motorized Millage and the Michigan Transportation Fund. Sealcoating is applied to roads currently in good or fair condition to extend their lifespan and reduce future repair costs.
“Sealcoating is more than just a surface fix — it is a long-term investment in our county infrastructure that helps preserve roads and keep maintenance costs down,” said Ken Harris, WCRC Superintendent of Maintenance.
The process involves two steps. First, a thin layer of liquid asphalt is applied and small stones are pressed into the surface. Then a second layer of asphalt is sprayed over the top to lock in the stones, with pavement markings added after curing.
All roads will remain open during the work, though drivers are encouraged to follow the posted 35 mph advisory speed to avoid loose stones and uncured asphalt. Freshly sealed roads should not be driven on until officially reopened. Drivers should follow instructions from any flaggers or pilot vehicles on site.
Work begins in June, weather permitting. The full list of roads included in the program can be found on the WCRC website. Sealcoat projects are indicated in orange on the county’s 2026 Road & Bridge Improvement Projects map below.
Questions can be directed to Ken Harris at (734) 327-6696 or [email protected].
