The feasibility of modifying properties of petroleum road asphalts with polymers is discussed from both standpoints of increasing the profitability of the polymer asphalt binders obtained (as a result of using inexpensive but effective components), and expanding the variety of asphalts for construction and repair of different categories of roads. It is shown that it is feasible in principal to use polyethylene as a modifier. The effect of the type of plasticizer on characteristics of the binders obtained is analyzed.