The Michigan Department of Transportation announced on Apr. 10 that it will continue to adjust spring weight restriction areas across the state’s trunkline highways in an effort to protect road infrastructure. Starting at 6 a.m. on Monday, April 13, weight restrictions will be lifted for all state trunkline highways from the southern Michigan border north to and including US-10 in Ludington, Mason County, east to M-66 in Osceola County, north to M-61 in Osceola County, and then east to US-23 in Standish, Arenac County. The change includes the entire thumb area.
Weight restrictions remain for roads north of the US-10/M-61 line, which includes the Upper Peninsula and Mackinac Island. These seasonal measures are intended to prevent damage during thaw periods when melting snow and ice saturate roadbeds with moisture trapped beneath pavement surfaces.
In restricted areas, routes designated as “all-season” will not see a reduction in legal axle weights. Oversize loads may use extended permits on restricted routes but single-trip permits for overweight or very large loads will not be issued. On “seasonal” routes—marked red on MDOT’s Truck Operators Map—weight reductions of up to 35 percent apply depending on pavement type and speed limits are enforced for certain vehicles.
Drivers are required by law to follow posted speed limits for weight-restricted roads. More information about truck speed restrictions and rules for propane fuel delivery or public utility vehicles can be found online through MDOT’s website at www.Michigan.gov/Truckers under “Restrictions.” Updates are also available via email alerts or by calling dedicated hotlines.
The Michigan Department of Transportation manages nearly 10,000 miles of state highways along with more than 4,800 bridges and other transportation assets according to its official website. The department employs over 2,800 people across seven regions statewide according to its official website.
MDOT’s mission is focused on serving people and supporting communities through transportation initiatives according to its official website. Leadership is provided by a director alongside key executives overseeing administrative operations according to its official website.
