Motorists can submit locations for map

A new online system is being launched for the public to report and avoid potholes as the pending warmer weather is expected to usher in problems on the roads when temperatures fluctuate between freeze and thaw.

Michigan motorists can visit www.drivemi.org and submit pothole locations, photos and comments to the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association (MITA), the road agency sponsoring the new pothole reporting system.

MITA will gather the information to create a new statewide Google map containing user-submitted pothole locations, photos, and comments. The online map will be updated as MITA receives pothole data submissions from residents around the state.

“Driving on pothole-riddled roads costs each Michigan motorist an average of $370 a year, and the average pothole repair can run even higher,” said Mike Nystrom, executive vice president of MITA. “And you can’t put a price tag on the frustration some of these potholes can cause.”

In addition to collecting pothole data, MITA will report the pothole locations to state and local road agencies as a public service.