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

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Coordinating Oversized Loads with ADOT

ADOT’s permitting process is central to managing oversized loads that include everything from wind turbine blades to houseboats. “This was definitely one of the more unusual loads we’ve permitted in recent years,” said Christina Pippin, ADOT permits technician. She noted that ADOT ensures public safety and minimizes wear on highways and local roads during such transports.

Preparing the Philippine Mars for Transit

The Philippine Mars seaplane’s size presented incredible logistical challenges. Standing 26.5 feet tall, measuring over 137 feet in length, and spanning 15 feet in width, the fuselage was one of the largest components to be transported. While its wings and engines were shipped separately as oversized loads, the fuselage required a specialized Class C permit issued by ADOT.

To minimize disruption, the transport primarily occurred at night, navigating major routes like Bell Road and State Route 85. The operation involved law enforcement escorts and utility crews to temporarily move overhead lines and adjust traffic control devices along the route.

Journey to Completion

After six carefully planned nights of travel, the Philippine Mars fuselage reached its destination at the Pima Air and Space Museum on Saturday, May 17. Meticulous coordination ensured a smooth process, keeping ADOT and local stakeholders, such as cities and counties, informed as plans were adjusted.

Courtney Mower, ADOT’s statewide permit services manager, explained the agency’s role in such operations. “Though our permit technicians are not physically on the road with these heavy loads, their expertise is fundamental to ensuring these shipments reach their destinations efficiently and safely,” said Mower. She also noted that ADOT processed over 6,500 oversized load permit applications in 2024, showcasing the agency’s extensive experience and capacity to handle unique transports.

Supporting Infrastructure and Oversized Shipments

While moving the Philippine Mars was a unique project, the steps taken emphasized ADOT’s dedication to supporting critical shipments while safeguarding infrastructure. This successful collaboration between private carriers, local governments, and ADOT underscores the importance of meticulous planning in managing oversized loads.

For more information about oversized permits and other ADOT services, visit azdot.gov/permits. Additionally, ADOT’s podcast highlights the valuable work of their oversized permit team.

Source: The Trucker
Image Source: ADOT

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