WINNIPEG, Man. — There will be a number of changes to Manitoba’s spring weight restrictions this year, according to Transportation and Government Services Minister, Steve Ashton.

Changes to the Spring Road Restrictions Program include: limiting the transportation of essential commodities to the shortest possible amount of travel on Level 2 restricted roads; lowering level 1 loading limits on B1 highways to 90 per cent of normal axle loads; moving the spring restriction start date forward to Mar. 18; and simultaneously implementing level 1 (90 per cent of normal axle loads) and level 2 (65 per cent of normal axle loads) on the weakest roads.

Ashton says that "A number of Manitoba’s paved roads are vulnerable during the spring thaw and resulting damages from heavy traffic can seriously impact the safety of our highways. Last year’s spring breakup was quite severe, with road damage exceeding our spring repair budget by over $6 million."

Ashton adds that trucking companies were part of the consultation process.

All vehicles 4,500 kilograms and heavier must comply with the new restrictions, which will remain in effect until late May.