Abstract: Methods, apparatuses and systems directed to joint restraining systems for concrete constructions. In one embodiment, the present invention is a novel method for creating joint restraints that employs a pipe dowel. As more fully described below, the present invention substantially reduces the time and labor involved in tying a series of parallel dowels into a rebar matrix. For example, the present invention eliminates the need to cut out sections of rebar. Rather, embodiments of the present invention require only a single cut in each rebar section along the line of the intended joint, rather than two cuts to remove a section of rebar. The present invention also eliminates the time and effort associated with tying dowels into the rebar matrix. In another embodiment, the present invention is a novel pipe dowel mechanism that, in addition to the advantages described above, obviates the need to apply a messy protective coating, such as grease, to a smooth dowel.