Interior Alaska's spring-thaw weight limits lift Wednesday for haulers

Truckers and contractors hauling heavy loads across Interior Alaska can start applying again for overweight approvals at 8 a.m. Wednesday, when the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities returns its Northern Region roads to summertime permitting.

That does not automatically restore full loads. Haulers who need to exceed standard limits must still apply for overweight approval through the department's Measurement Standards and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement group at 907-365-1200.

The Northern Region covers the Interior and beyond: the Parks Highway north of Mile 163, the Glenn northeast of Mile 118, the full Richardson Highway from Valdez to Fairbanks, and the road systems in Cordova and Nome. The Dalton Highway and the Elliott's first 72 miles carried no restrictions this season.

The limits, in place since a four-tier system took effect May 21, capped axle loads for heavier vehicles during spring thaw, when melting ground softens roadbeds. The department has lifted segments in stages since, and says it is watching conditions closely and could impose new restrictions if needed.