Released on April 29, 2004
Farmers, truckers and any drivers carrying heavy loads will now have an easier way to access information about spring road bans on Saskatchewan highways.A new interactive map on Saskatchewan Highways and Transportation's Web site – www.highways.gov.sk.ca – shows where road bans are in place or have been lifted, and gives information on special year-round weight restrictions across the province. Users can click on their region for a more detailed look at the map.
The latest road ban information for highways and RM roads can still be found on the Web site in list form under the heading "Weight Restrictions."
"I would encourage drivers that may be affected by spring road bans to check the Web site for information on restrictions in their area," Highways and Transportation Minister Maynard Sonntag said. "This information will be particularly helpful to heavy-haul industries such as agriculture, commercial trucking, oil and gas, and forestry, to name a few."
Road ban information can also be obtained by calling the Highway Hotline province-wide at 1-888-335-7623. In Regina and area, call 787-7623; and in Saskatoon and area, call 933-8333. SaskTel Cellular users can also dial *ROAD.
Spring road bans came into effect in March and are still in effect in many regions. All restrictions will likely be lifted by May 12th, although this date is dependant on weather.
Prior to the construction season, spring road bans help minimize damage on Saskatchewan's network of Thin Membrane Surface (TMS) highways. These restrictions do not apply to highways with structural pavements. Road bans on municipal roads are determined by local rural municipalities.
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For More Information, Contact:
| Kim Meakin Highways and Transportation Saskatoon Phone: (306) 933-5228 |