Half load limits pushed up for SD&G roads

In this March 2020, file photo, a sign tells truck drivers about reduced load limits on Cornwall Centre Road, west of Brookdale Avenue.(Newswatch Group/Bill Kingston, File)

SD&G – The United Counties of SD&G is pushing up the timeline for truck weigh restrictions on county roads.

The half-weight restrictions are going in place this Friday (Feb 17).

SD&G Interim Operations Manager Derek McMillan says the ground about 40 centimeters below the surface is about 6 degrees warmer than it normally is this time of year.

“With the warm temperatures forecast for later this week the frost is likely to be out of the ground. We have concerns about deteriorating road conditions if we don’t begin half-load season on Feb. 17,” he said.

Half load limits usually go into effect in early March.

The restrictions, which are in effect until early May, are meant to prevent damage to the road base during the pre-spring freezing and thawing cycle.

SD&G spokesman Todd Lihou says the county coordinates with the lower tier municipalities and the City of Cornwall on half load restrictions, meaning Cornwall’s restrictions will also start Friday.

In the city, that will cover sections of South Branch Road, Cornwall Centre Road, McConnell Avenue, Richmond Drive and Boundary Road within city limits.