Gem State Wire

Sections of certain state highways in Boundary County, North Idaho, will be subject to weight and speed restrictions starting at 6 a.m. tomorrow due to warming regional weather trends. These restrictions aim to protect roadways from damage during the transition from winter to spring.

Commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 pounds or more will face specific limitations on several routes. On US-95, from the US-2 junction to Eastport (milepost 511 to 538.56), and on US-2, from the US-95 junction to the Montana state line (milepost 64.35 to 80.18), these vehicles must adhere to a speed limit of 30 miles per hour while maintaining legal axle weight.

On SH-1, stretching from the US-95 junction to Porthill (milepost 0 to 11.19), similar speed restrictions apply, along with an axle weight limit of either 14,000 pounds or legal axle weight, whichever is less.

State Highways 200 and 57 in Bonner County are expected to experience similar restrictions next week as conditions warrant.

Additional sections across the Idaho Panhandle may also see load limits and speed restrictions as spring progresses. These changes are signaled by red/green indicator flags on load limit signs; red indicates active restrictions for large vehicles, while green signifies unrestricted traffic flow due to stable road conditions.

ITD crews monitor weather and road conditions closely, leading to intermittent enforcement of these measures as needed. "These restrictions are put in place when the highways start showing signs of stress from the winter freeze/thaw cycle," explained Boundary Foreman George Shutes.

The thawing process turns frost and ice into water beneath roads, softening the ground and making it susceptible to damage from heavy vehicles. This can lead to serious issues such as cracks and erosion in pavement layers. Slowing down heavy vehicles helps mitigate this stress and prevents costly repairs while extending roadway lifespan.

During restriction periods, state law does not mandate that large vehicles pull over for passing cars, potentially causing delays along affected corridors. "The best thing people can do this time of year is give themselves a little extra time," advised Idaho State Police Sergeant Ron Sutton. He cautioned against impatience that could lead drivers into risky maneuvers like unsafe passing attempts.

Information about load limit restrictions is primarily aimed at commercial drivers through the 511 system but is accessible online or via mobile app settings adjustments for all users seeking up-to-date details.