Motorists in Oregon should prepare for potential delays on highways and local roads between the Port of Morrow and the Idaho border this summer. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has announced plans to transport 31 oversized loads, known as “superloads,” over the coming months. Schedules are flexible and subject to change, according to ODOT.
According to ODOT, the superloads contain no hazardous materials, fuels, or liquids. The shipments will travel at speeds of 10 to 30 miles per hour along designated routes, including U.S. 730, OR 37, Interstate 84 in Pendleton, U.S. 395, U.S. 26, and OR 201, before exiting Oregon into Idaho via OR 201 near Adrian. Oversized loads will operate from the Port of Morrow through Pilot Rock during nighttime hours and from Pilot Rock to the Idaho border during both daytime and nighttime hours. When not in transit, the loads will park off the main roadway.
Due to the extreme size of each shipment, both travel lanes on two-lane highways will be used, causing traffic delays. Vehicles will experience periodic stops, and pilot cars will escort the shipments, guiding them along the route. Designated pull-over sites will allow superloads to stop and give waiting vehicles a chance to pass.
ODOT urges all drivers to stay vigilant when encountering pilot vehicles escorting these oversized or overweight loads, as safety remains a top priority. Special permits and traffic management plans have been established to reduce risk for all road users along the transport routes.
What is a Superload?
A superload is a unique classification of oversized loads in Oregon. The term applies to shipments exceeding the following dimensions:
- Width: Over 16 feet on Interstates or over 14 feet on two-lane state highways (excluding certain mobile units with widths including up to a 12-inch eave).
- Height: Over 17 feet on any highway.
- Length: Greater than 150 feet overall.
- Mobile Units: Those with a width exceeding 14 feet for the box or a total width greater than 15 feet.
If you have inquiries regarding these heavy transports, Doug Smith of Omega Morgan can assist at 503-647-7474.
Motorists are encouraged to plan for these transports and allow extra travel time when driving along affected routes.
Source: Truckers News
