Frequently Asked Questions

Restoration refers to the process of repairing and returning an area to its original – or near-original – condition after Public Works has completed an excavation project. This includes repairing disturbed surfaces like sidewalks, driveways, parkways and roads.

There are several reasons restoration isn't always immediate:

• Settling period: For projects involving digging underground (like water main repairs or sewer work), the soil needs time to settle and compact naturally. Rushing restoration can lead to future dips or uneven surfaces.
• Weather conditions: Certain restoration work – like pouring concrete or paving asphalt – requires specific temperature ranges and dry conditions to ensure proper curing and durability. Because of this, most restoration is completed between the months of March and November. 
• Material availability: Specialized materials or contractors may have lead times that impact the restoration schedule.
• Coordinating contractors: We often use different contractors for initial project than the restoration work. Coordinating their schedules can take time.
• Prioritizing emergency repairs: The Public Works Department must prioritize emergency repairs (such as water main breaks), which can temporarily shift our resources away from scheduled restoration.

• Safety: Areas posing a safety hazard (such as large potholes or uneven surfaces in high-traffic areas) are given top priority.
• Project type: Emergency repairs or critical infrastructure projects often need to be restored more promptly.
• Scope of work: Larger, more complex restoration projects may be scheduled in phases.
• Seasonality: Work that is weather-dependent (like asphalt paving) will be scheduled during appropriate seasons.
• Efficiency: The department may group nearby restoration sites together to work more efficiently and reduce costs.

For work directly affecting your property (such as access to your driveway), you'll typically receive a door hanger, letter, or direct communication from the Public Works Department or the contractor before scheduled work begins. For street-wide restoration, you may see temporary "No Parking" signs or electronic message boards in advance.

If restoration work is planned for your property, you'll generally be advised to clear the area of any personal items, vehicles or items that may get in the way. If sprinkler systems or underground dog fences are present, please mark their locations clearly to help crews avoid damage.

The restoration process will vary depending on the type of work being done. It may involve:

• Excavation (digging underground): If the area needs further preparation.
• Grading and compacting: This ensures the ground is level and stable.
• Material installation: Pouring concrete, laying asphalt, or installing topsoil and grass seed.
• Cleanup: Crews will clean up debris and ensure the area is tidy.

After grass seed has been set in the parkway, it is the responsibility of the property owner/resident whose property meets the parkway to water and maintain the newly seeded area. Public Works crews complete the initial seeding, but ongoing watering is crucial for successful germination and growth. Consistent watering is especially important during the first few weeks after seeding. Please note: Public Works will only seed the parkways in the spring and fall so that grass seed grows properly. Crews will not plant during the summer or winter, when proper grass seed growth is unlikely.  

We want all residents to be satisfied with the parkway adjacent to their property. If you have concerns about the quality of the restoration work, please contact the Wheaton Public Works Department directly. Please provide specific details and, if possible, photos of your concerns.

The duration of restoration varies greatly depending on the scope and type of work. Minor sidewalk or driveway patches might take a few hours, while larger road reconstructions or extensive landscaping restoration could take several days or even weeks. You can contact Public Works for an estimated timeframe for a specific project. 

Generally, the Public Works Department will restore the area with materials consistent with what was there previously or with standard materials used in that area. Decorative drive approach restoration is the responsibility of the homeowner.