by Cowford
The state is getting ready to approve a pilot that permits vehicles up to 100,000lbs GVW on I-95. (They are currently allowed on state roads with the use a sixth axle.) This is an increase of 25% increase over current limitations, albeit with the use of an additional axle. Here is an editorial from the Bangor Daily News:
http://www.bangordailynews.com/detail/120765.html
My objective nature forces me to be ok with the weight changes, provided safety considerations are addressed; Canada has been operating with much the same rules country-wide for ages. However - and this is a big however - Canada taxes the snot out of diesel fuel to provide for road damage. That serves two purposes: 1) it makes truckers pay their fair share and 2) it evens the playing field with railroads. So, if the truckers want to roll heavier, that's cool... but make 'em pay for the priviledge! Ok, end of editorial.
If you live in the state, I recommend you contact your elected officials and the folks at the state DOT to give your two cents. Left unchecked, i.e., without a legitimate increase in user fees, this rule change could do serious (further) damage to railroads operating in Maine.
http://www.bangordailynews.com/detail/120765.html
My objective nature forces me to be ok with the weight changes, provided safety considerations are addressed; Canada has been operating with much the same rules country-wide for ages. However - and this is a big however - Canada taxes the snot out of diesel fuel to provide for road damage. That serves two purposes: 1) it makes truckers pay their fair share and 2) it evens the playing field with railroads. So, if the truckers want to roll heavier, that's cool... but make 'em pay for the priviledge! Ok, end of editorial.
If you live in the state, I recommend you contact your elected officials and the folks at the state DOT to give your two cents. Left unchecked, i.e., without a legitimate increase in user fees, this rule change could do serious (further) damage to railroads operating in Maine.