It always has potholes. Have been there several times and you can tell they patch it but the heavy excavation vehicles and the temperature probably play a big part. City folk underestimate what true darkness really is, and each time I have been we always have the same thought as you but you get so captivated in this unique environment that you just don't want to leave!

Also for folks not familiar with USA roads, you can be on a State Highway, US Highway, or even the Interstate system and still be pothole ridden. Every state has jokes about their roads being the worst and the neighboring being the best (and they all think they are unique). Just the nature of roadways and government management.