For more information, contact:
Michael Sproul, WisDOT Bureau of Highway Operations
(608) 266-8680, michael.sproul@dot.wi.gov
Spring Thaw and Class II restrictions take effect in Zone 1 on Wednesday, March 14
Due to warming weather, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) has announced that effective today, the frozen road declaration has ended for Zone 1 (north of US 8). With the addition of Zone 1, Wisconsin’s frozen road law is now suspended statewide. Spring Thaw and Class II road restrictions are already in effect for Zones 2 through 5 and will take effect in Zone 1 on Wednesday, March 14.
Class II roads include about 1,400 miles of state highways susceptible to damage from overweight trucks during the spring thaw period as frost leaves the ground. More information regarding Class II roadways and roadway postings can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s web site at: http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/travel/truck/weightrestrictions.htm.
Declaration of Spring Thaw also means suspension of most divisible load overweight permits. Information on overweight permits can be found at http://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/business/carriers/osowgeneral.htm. A recorded message with information on road restrictions is available by calling (608) 266-8417.
County highways, town roads, and city and village streets may also be posted or limited to legal load limits or less. Decisions to place or lift weight restrictions on those roads are up to local units of government.
