US 395 Freight Improvement pilot program extended - Pilot Rock to Mt. Vernon

Oregon Department of Transportation sent this bulletin at 07/01/2014 04:24 PM PDT

Date: July 1, 2014                                                                                         NR number: 14070115

       For more information: Tom Strandberg - (541) 963-1330

 

US 395 Freight Improvement pilot program extended

JOHN DAY, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Transportation’s two year pilot program to reduce restrictions on freight travel along U.S. Highway 395 between Pilot Rock and Mt. Vernon in eastern Oregon is entering a new phase. After two years with no incidences involving permitted 53-foot trailers along the length-restricted corridor, ODOT will be extending the program another year beginning July 1. Additional freight haulers will now be able to apply for a trip permit. The route will continue to be monitored for permit compliance through this next phase. The pilot project is intended to accommodate safe movement of 53-foot trailers and help boost local economies by giving freight carriers more options for transporting goods along this critical north-south route.  

 

U.S. 395 is restricted for vehicles towing trailers in excess of 48 feet in length between mile point 16B (Pilot Rock) and mile post 121B (Mt. Vernon) due to numerous sharp curves and a narrow roadway. The pilot program was implemented in 2012 after one curve was widened near mile post 64B and an over-length vehicle warning system installed between mile posts 50B and 60B.

 

Transport companies wishing to apply for a trip permit should contact ODOT Motor Carrier Transportation Division at 503-373-0000.

 

This program will be limited to a total of 20 permits per week for all carriers, with permits issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Carriers will be charged an $8.00 fee for each permit.

 

See attached for special trip permit conditions and hazard area map.

 

For more information about the U.S. 395 Freight Improvement Project or other ODOT highway project in eastern Oregon contact Public Information Officer Tom Strandberg at 541-963-1330, Thomas.m.strandberg@odot.state.or.us. Visit the ODOT website at www.tinyurl.com/odot-region5 . 

 

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