The Michigan Department of Transportation continues to adjust spring weight restriction on state roads in an annual move to protect roads.
Effective 6 a.m. Monday, March 31, weight restrictions will be lifted on all state trunkline highways from the southern Michigan border north to and including the following route beginning on M-20 at the US-31 intersection near New Era then east on M-20 to the US-131 interchange in Mecosta County, then north on US-131 to the south US-131 Business Route/M-20 interchange in Big Rapids, then east on M-20 to the US-10 interchange in Midland County, then east on US-10 continuing to M-25 to the M-15 intersection in Bay City, then south on M-15 to the M-46 intersection in Tuscola County, then east on M-46 ending at M-25 in Port Sanilac.
Frost restrictions are still in effect for the remainder of the state and will be imposed and enforced on all state trunkline highways north of the route detailed above. State routes typically carry M, I, or US designations.
In the restricted areas, the following will apply:
- On routes designated as “all-season” (designated in green and gold on the MDOT Truck Operators Map), there will be no reduction in legal axle weights.
- All extended permits will be valid for oversize loads in the weight-restricted area on the restricted routes. Single-trip permits will not be issued for any overweight loads or loads exceeding 14 feet in width, 11 axles, and 150 feet in overall length on the restricted routes.
- On routes designated as “seasonal” (designated in solid or dashed red on the MDOT Truck Operators Map), there will be a posted weight reduction of 25 percent for rigid (concrete) pavements and 35 percent for flexible (asphalt) pavements, and maximum speed of 35 mph for some vehicles.
Drivers must follow the speed limits for weight restricted roads, per state law. Go online for speed restrictions for trucks and the rules for propane fuel delivery and public utility vehicles.
MDOT determines when weight restrictions begin each spring by measuring frost depths along state highways, observing road conditions, and monitoring weather forecasts. Weight restrictions remain in effect until the frost line is deep enough to allow moisture to escape and the roadbeds regain stability.
For weight restriction information and updates, call 800-787-8960, or you can access this information on MDOT’s website at www.Michigan.gov/Truckers, under “Restrictions.” All-season routes are designated in green and gold on the MDOT Truck Operators Map, which is available online. You also may sign up to receive email alerts.
Trucking companies located in New Jersey and Canada can obtain information by calling 517-373-6256.
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