Spring Weight Restrictions Likely

The Minister of Transportation and Public Works reminded truckers today that spring weight restrictions will soon be in effect on many Nova Scotia roads.

The department will be announcing the trucking restrictions within the week and will be providing a daily update on the roads closed through a telephone line and on the internet at www.gov.ns.ca/tran .

Spring weight restrictions are imposed to help protect lower standard roads, weakened by the wet spring weather, from severe breakup that can result when the ground thaws. The wet conditions and lack of frost contribute to potholes and pavement deterioration.

"We are monitoring the situation daily," said Transportation Minister Ron Russell. "We'll close roads as weather dictates. Just one heavy load can destroy a road at this time of year."

The public can check the daily restriction update by calling the department's Road Report Line at 1-800-307-7669 across the province and 424-3933 in metro Halifax. The department will also issue daily traffic advisories explaining any closures.

A complete list of exempted roads will be published in major newspapers across the province.

The Minister of Transportation and Public Works has the right to revise restriction zones, weight restrictions and the list of roads exempted as conditions warrant.