Spring road limits could be delayed

Spring load limits for trucks have been set by the Flathead County commissioners and are scheduled to take effect Monday.

However, a memorandum from the Road and Bridge Department noted the load limits may be delayed due to weather conditions.

“My gut tells me it will most likely be mid to the end of next week” before the load limit signs are posted, Flathead County Public Works Director Dave Prunty said.

Load limit signs won’t be posted until the Road Department determines the conditions are warranted, he said.

The temporary measure is intended to prevent damage to county roadways during the spring thaw by reducing the amount of weight they have to support.

Trucks will be limited to either 350 or 400 pounds per inch of tire width, depending on the number of axles per truck. That translates to truck weights ranging from 14,000 to 32,000 pounds.

In addition to weight limits, speed limits on most county roads are reduced to 35 mph during the thaw.

As roads dry out, the weight limits generally are lifted, typically first on the valley floor and later at higher elevations.

Variances may be sought through the county Road and Bridge Department, which also has a complete list of roads affected by the load limits. If allowed, a permit will be granted during frozen road conditions. Hauling must be done between 4 and 9 a.m. The permit fee is $500 and requires a minimum 48-hour notice.

The Road Department will evaluate roads as conditions warrant for the removal of the restrictions, Prunty said. As conditions change, updates will be posted on the county website only.

For more information, call the Road Department at 758-5790 or go to the county website at flathead.mt.gov.