Transportation and Public Works Minister, Honourable Michael Currie announced that spring weight restrictions on Island highways will come into effect, 12:01 a.m. Friday, March 5. Spring weight restrictions come into effect each year and are applied to Island roads that are not built to all-weather standards. The restrictions will apply to roughly 80% of the Province's 5,700 kilometres of highway network, noted Mr. Currie.
Mr. Currie also noted that weight restrictions are being implemented earlier this year because of the extremely mild temperatures being experienced resulting in a weakened highway structure.
During this period in which the weight restrictions are in effect, most commercial vehicles are restricted to carrying 75% of their maximum allowable weight on any axle, or axle group, with no tolerances allowed.
Mr. Currie indicated that weight restrictions will remain in effect until roads regain their structural strength, and that during this period of restriction, enforcement personnel will be out ensuring that weight restrictions are being followed.
Minister Currie is seeking the support and the cooperation of the trucking industry during the next several weeks while our highways are in this weakened state.