DEAR SUN SPOTS: I’ve wondered this for a long time. When Lewiston Public Works repairs a manhole, they cut out a trench surrounding the cover and then just leave it for days or weeks, placing traffic cones and traffic signs up. This can be a huge inconvenience and a safety hazard. It makes getting in and out of driveways a deadly exercise and removes scarce parking spaces. Is there a legitimate reason for this practice? — Andrew Hall, Ajhalllpn@gmail.com

ANSWER: Sun Spots consulted with Megan Bates, deputy director of Lewiston’s Department of Public Works, who sent the request on to Operations Manager Jon Elie. Jon explained as follows:

“The most common reason for cutting away the pavement around manholes is to prepare the street for a new layer of pavement. There are several utilities involved, such as sewer manholes, storm drain manholes, catch basins and sometimes telephone manholes. Each utility operator is responsible for adjusting their own structures to the new thickness of pavement.

“A Public Works crew starts by cutting away the existing pavement around the structure to provide access to the brickwork. This process takes a utility truck for signs and hand tools, a compressor/jack hammer, dump truck and small bucket loader. After the manholes and basins are prepped, the same crew gears up with masonry tools and materials to “raise” the utilities by replacing loose brickwork or adding bricks to gain the necessary elevation.

“Sometimes there are many layers of dilapidated bricks that need to be completely removed and replaced. The masonry mortar needs to cure at least overnight before the next step, backfilling with gravel and compacting the material can be done by the same crew prior to the paving of coarse asphalt.

“And once again, the same crew gears up with yet different tools and vehicles to install the surrounding asphalt.

“Once the manholes and basins are raised approximately 1.25 to 1.50 inches, the street is ready for the new layer of pavement.

“In summary, over the years, crew staffing has been reduced and like many other types of industry, we are challenged to do more with less people.”

DEAR SUN SPOTS: For L.G., Lewiston, who was looking for support hose (Aug. 17): I found a supplier in a magazine ad. I sent for two pairs to try and found them to be equally as good as those I bought at a medical supply store.

At the time they were on special, “buy one pair get another pair free.” The price for one pair is $9.97. They are or were available from Dream Products, 412 Dream Lane, Van Nuys, CA 91496-0001, phone 1-800-410-2153. Item description: Medafit D.P. Item No. 98957. Silver-lined compression sock (knee length). Another good benefit: Made in USA. — Dick Comeau, Rumford

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Thanks for your column. It’s a great service to our community. I have a lot of Cross Stitch magazines to give to anyone who would be interested. They are dated 1989 to 1995, but are still in good shape. I work in the Lewiston area if anyone would like to make arrangements to pick them up. Please call me at 754-4231 after 3:30 p.m. — No Name, Wales

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be e-mailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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