New proposal may restrict heavy trucks on some Maryland roads

Williamsport, Maryland's Economic and Community Development department officials recently drafted a proposal that would restrict truck weights on some roads throughout the town, Herald-Mail reports.

Under the proposal, some roads within the town would have a weight restriction of 26,000 pounds, which would keep many dump trucks and tractor-trailers off these sections,even when they are not loaded with freight. However, local deliveries, for instance from lumber companies would be exempt from this plan.

"This is really about maintaining the roads and not putting the burden on taxpayers who reap no benefit from these trucks going through town," James McCleaf, town mayor, told the news source.

Officials added that the ordinance, if passed will be introduces in April and could be effective as early as June. Trucks coming into the into using routes 63 or Md. 68 will be redirected onto U.S. Interstate 11.

Enrolling new drivers into online truck driving regulation training may help operators learn the specific routes their area restricts heavy vehicles to use.

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, more than 2 million truck inspections were took place during 2010. These inspection may occur along routes that do not allow tractor-trailers in order to meet compliance standards.

By Andie Martin 

New proposal may restrict heavy trucks on some Maryland roads

Wednesday, March 9th, 2011