State imposes spring weight limits on Valdez, Cordova roads April 13

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities will restrict truck weights on state roads in Valdez and Cordova starting April 13 at 8 a.m. to protect pavement during spring thaw.

Most roads in both communities will be limited to 85 percent of legal axle weight, with no overload permits allowed. Three Cordova roads — Power Creek Road, Whitshed Road, and Orca Road — face stricter limits at 75 percent of legal weight. The restrictions apply to all vehicles over 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.

The Richardson Highway from Valdez to Mile 18, Mineral Creek Loop Road, Dayville Road, Airport Road, and all other state roads in Valdez fall under the 85 percent restriction. In Cordova, all state roads except the three with stricter limits also face the 85 percent cap.

The Elliott Highway and Dalton Highway remain exempt from seasonal weight restrictions. The department monitors weather and pavement conditions and will adjust restrictions as needed.

Commercial Vehicle Enforcement will enforce the limits. Current weight restriction notices are posted at www.dot.state.ak.us/mscve/main.cfm under Public Notices: Weight Restrictions.

Daniel Adamczak, Northern Region maintenance and operations engineer, issued the notice. He can be reached at 907-451-2294 or [email protected].