Weight and Height Restrictions that Impact Truck Travel

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December 2017

Numerous bridges in the Boston region have weight or height restrictions that preclude the use of a roadway by trucks exceeding the limit. These bridges may be in sound physical condition, but built to different standards. The purpose of this study is to identify the locations of restricted bridges and estimate the impact that these bridges pose to regional truck movements. These estimates are largely qualitative, focusing on the types of trucks, industries, and shipments most likely to be inconvenienced by a bridge restriction.

The study reviews the regulations governing road use by large vehicles and sign placement by operating authorities. Specific locations with restrictions are listed and mapped. Crash data are presented for bridges with height restrictions, and opportunities to incorporate these data into MPO project evaluations are also identified.

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