Winter Weights on Saskatchewan Highways End March 15

Released on March 10, 2015

Weather permitting, winter weights will remain in effect for much of central and northern Saskatchewan until March 15 when they are removed by legislation.

“At this time of year, we need to strike a balance between maximizing efficiency for shippers and protecting our highways from damage,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister Nancy Heppner said.  “Crews monitor road conditions regularly and will remove winter weights as conditions require.  Shippers can check restriction orders and the Highway Hotline for the latest information.”

Winter weights have already been removed for southern and west-central Saskatchewan.  Weight restriction orders around winter weights are published online at www.highways.gov.sk.ca/restrictions/ under the "New Winter Order" link.  Updates of the winter restriction orders will be provided today and Friday by 12:30 p.m.

Truckers can also find restriction orders on the Highway Hotline at http://hotline.gov.sk.ca/restrictions/ or by calling 1-888-335-7623.  Technical and regulatory information is also available from Commercial Vehicle Enforcement at 1-866-933-5290, weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except statutory holidays.

Shippers should also be aware of upcoming spring road bans.  Spring road bans are weight restrictions placed on secondary roads during the thaw period when roads are most fragile.

They are typically applied first in the southwest and expand to the rest of the province as weather dictates. When restrictions are implemented they may be in place for up to six weeks.

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For more information, contact:

Joel Cherry
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4805
Email: joel.cherry@gov.sk.ca