Asphalt shortage disrupts road projects

The loss of a supplier has already delayed projects in Island County and threatens others in the region. By David Chircop, Herald Writer EVERETT -- Contractors say asphalt supplies in Western Washington are increasingly scarce following a decision by the Tesoro refinery in Anacortes to stop producing liquid asphalt. The interruption comes during the heat of the paving season, and amid record spikes for the cost of asphalt, which has doubled this year. It's affecting everything from small driveway projects to major highway jobs. "I've talked with everybody and their brother and haven't found anything," said Don Kreig, vice president of Kreig Construction in Oak Harbor, about the challenges of getting liquid asphalt. "It's rather frustrating." Several other regions are also experiencing a shortage of asphalt as refineries move... [read full story]