If you’ve driven down Gribble Road in recent years, you know it has carried the scars of time, weather, and countless patchwork repairs. For decades, potholes have been the hallmark of this stretch—patched here and there as best as possible, but never with a lasting solution. Many of us have memories of bouncing over rough spots, or of temporary fixes that seemed to crumble away almost as soon as they were laid.

That chapter has now closed. Thanks to the persistence of the Workman’s Airpark HOA and strong cooperation with Clackamas County, Gribble Road has finally received a full repaving—one that promises both durability and a smoother driving experience for everyone.

How It Was Done

Traffic was temporarily stopped to give the paving crew full access to Gribble Road during resurfacing.

The repaving project was carefully planned and executed in two passes, one in each direction. Before the asphalt was applied, the entire roadway surface was thoroughly cleaned with wire brush machines to remove debris and create a sound base. Next, a thin layer of oily tar (tack coat) was applied to help the new asphalt adhere securely to the existing roadway.

Paving crew and equipment laying down a fresh layer of asphalt on Gribble Road.

A Road That Should Last

Once prepared, a thick layer of fresh asphalt was laid down. Large industrial rollers followed close behind, compacting and smoothing the surface to create an even, durable finish. Equally important, existing driveways along the road were carefully blended into the new pavement, eliminating sharp edges and creating a seamless transition between private access points and the main road.

A heavy roller compacts and smooths the new asphalt, ensuring a durable, even roadway surface.

Unlike the patch jobs of the past, this was a true rebuild effort. With the tar bonding layer, heavier asphalt, professional compaction, and proper surface prep, the new roadway should provide many years of service before requiring significant maintenance. While no road lasts forever, residents and county officials estimate this paving project will hold up for decades with normal upkeep.

The newly repaved Gribble Road—once filled with potholes—now offers drivers a smooth, comfortable ride.
A Community Success

This project is the direct result of the HOA’s involvement and determination. By working closely with Clackamas County and keeping attention on the issue, the HOA helped turn years of frustration into a long-term improvement for everyone who lives, works, and visits along Gribble Road.

Now, instead of dodging potholes, drivers can enjoy a smooth and safe approach to our airpark—an upgrade that benefits the entire community…

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3 responses to “Gribble Road Gets a Long Awaited Upgrade”

  1. Julie Avatar
    Julie

    Thanks to all who over the years has contacted the county offices either in person, phone or pen.. Great article and photos!

    Liked by 1 person

  2. .. Avatar
    ..

    Thank you Julie, I agree. Roger

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  3. Patty AndArt Whitney Avatar
    Patty AndArt Whitney

    I agree that they did a wonderful job with the paving of the road. They put on a thick layer of asphalt and levelled out all the swales on the road. I no longer have to worry about potholes while driving or walking on it. It should last a real long time.

    I do want to give everyone a heads up about the very deep “lips” at the side of the road at various places. I have been told that it is normal to put gravel at the edges to help with the lips, but in the meantime we need to be wary of them.

    Some of the lips are 6 inches or more, especially at the east and west ends of the road. And some of these lips are adjacent to deep drainage ditches.

    I do know I am in the habit of scooting over to the side of the road to pass around large vehicles going the other direction. Sometimes I need to scoot far enough that my right wheels are off the road. I don’t like surprises, so I am passing on this information.

    From Patty Whitney

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