Released on November 27, 2009
Highways and Infrastructure Minister Jim Reiter reminds truckers that winter weight season starts Tuesday for all applicable provincial highways.
"Because road beds freeze as we move into winter, they are stronger and can withstand heavier truck loads without being damaged," Reiter said. "This means transportation savings for shippers, as heavier loads means fewer trips."
From Nov. 16 until Nov. 30, the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure restricted which provincial highways could carry winter weights. This period before Dec. 1 gives the Ministry the annual option to either allow heavier winter weights earlier or restrict them to protect infrastructure, depending on weather.
Winter weights remain in effect until the last day of February, but may be restricted again from March 1 until March 14. As of March 15, the allowable weights will revert back down to normal summer weights or have a spring ban weight restriction, depending on current conditions.
Truckers can find the latest road restriction orders and related information online at www.highways.gov.sk.ca/restrictions/ or by calling the Highway Hotline as follows: Regina and area at 306-787-7623; Saskatoon and area at 306-933-8333; across Canada at 1-888-335-7623; and on the SaskTel Cellular Network at *ROAD.
For technical and regulatory information during the winter weight season, commercial carriers within Saskatchewan can also telephone the Transport Compliance Branch Inquiry Line at 1-866-933-5290. Truckers outside of Saskatchewan can call the same line at 306-933-5290. The line operates weekdays, except statuary holidays, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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For more information, contact:
Kirsten Leatherdale
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8484
Cell: 306-536-9692