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More information: Tom Strandberg, phone 541-663-6261, Email thomas.m.strandberg@odot.oregon.gov
March 24, 2022
CORVALLIS – Over 40 drivers with loads weighing between 500 and 58,000 pounds over the Van Buren Bridge’s 12-ton posted weight limit were cited during a two-day compliance operation last week in Corvallis. The 108-year-old bridge is currently weight restricted to 12 tons due to a deteriorating bridge deck and support structure. It is scheduled to be replaced.
After monitoring traffic and sending reminders of the weight restriction to community and freight industry partners, the Oregon Department of Transportation’s Commerce and Compliance Division conducted an enforcement operation March 15 and 16. During the operation, all trucks and large vehicles were directed off the highway and weighted, after crossing the bridge. Of the 66 vehicles stopped, 40 were over the 12-ton limit and given citations. This equates to a non-compliance rate of 61 percent.
- 10 vehicles were between 500 and 5,000 pounds over the legal limit.
- 5 vehicles were between 5,001 and 10,000 pounds over.
- 15 vehicles were between 10,001 and 20,000 pounds over.
- 10 vehicles were between 20,001 and 57,800 pounds over (57,800 was the highest over the limit weight during the two-day operation).
The 12-ton weight restriction began a year ago to help keep the structure in use and prevent it from being damaged to the point where additional restrictions are needed. If the bridge is damaged by carrying overweight loads, it may have to be closed for repairs.
“Overweight vehicles need to use the designated detours or other legal alternate routes until the new structure is completed and open for travel,” said Willamette Valley Motor Carrier Enforcement Manager Lloyd Pratt. “We will continue to monitor vehicles crossing the structure and deploy additional enforcement operations if needed.”
A project to replace the bridge is scheduled to begin construction in 2023. Visit the Van Buren Bridge project webpage for details, including background information, past public meetings, new bridge proposals and more.
Concerns can be addressed by visiting or calling the Oregon Truck Safety Hotline | 800-248-6782.
Detour
Vehicles traveling east on OR 34 that over the weight limit of 12 tons will need to use the detour route.
Click to enlarge the detour map.
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