MoDOT: Heavier loads OK during levee work

JEFFERSON CITY -- While construction is underway to repair levees in Southeast Missouri, the Missouri Department of Transportation will extend allowances for heavier-than-normal loads of sand and gravel used in these repairs on selected Missouri highways. Private and for-hire motor carriers may carry up to 10 percent more than their licensed weight; however, the heavier loads are not allowed to use interstate routes or national defense highway routes. Overweight permits will not be required. This waiver is in effect through Nov. 30. Along with those limitations, drivers must restrict vehicle speed to no more than 30 miles per hour when crossing bridges, and must center trucks between two lanes of the bridge. Drivers must yield to oncoming traffic. All travelers are advised to visit the MoDOT Traveler Information Map at www.modot.org for up-to-date road closure information. For questions, call 1-800-877-8499 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.