Load restrictions now in force across Peace region

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Load restrictions for transport trucks in the Peace region are now in effect until further notice.

Starting April 2nd at 10 a.m, restrictions on the allowable weight loads carried by trucks in the region are in effect, according to a release from the Ministry of Transportation and Transit. 

The restrictions are in place between 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., allowing for drivers to conduct night routes without any limitations. 

They are implemented by the ministry’s Seasonal Strength Loss Program, which identifies and places restrictions on roads that have been weakened by an excessive build-up of water in the base. 

The restrictions are in place to protect those roads from damage and costly repairs, the ministry said. 

The restrictions will be lifted once the roads are deemed structurally sound.

For truck drivers, the restrictions may require reducing loads, adjusting routes or making more trips while the restrictions are in effect, the ministry said. 

Trucks are permitted to carry 100 per cent of their load on all provincial numbered routes, whether they are paved or gravel. 

Trucks travelling on provincial side roads are only allowed to carry 70 per cent of their load, regardless of if the roads are paved or gravel.

Exemptions for this limit in the North Peace include Beatton Airport Road from Alaska Highway 97 north to kilometre 74, where only 75 per cent of loads are permitted. 

An exception is also in place on Old Fort Road 148 from Howe Pit to the Old Fort Loop, where only 50 per cent of the load can be transported.

However, full 100 per cent loads are permitted on some thoroughfares, including 103A Airport Road from Underpass Road 255 to Swanson Lumber Road 259, East Bypass Road 146 from the Fort St. John city limits to 93rd Street, and West Bypass Road 145 from the Fort St John city limits to Rose Prairie Road 101. 

Overload permits are invalid on restricted routes.  

Violators of the regulations and restrictions will be prosecuted accordingly, the release says. 

The release stated that side roads in the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality, stretching to Fort Nelson, are exempt from the restrictions. 

For a full list of roads, check this load restrictions webpage.