Truckers running through eastern Oregon this summer should be aware: thirty-one huge "superloads" will be moving between the Port of Morrow and the Idaho border. The first roll started June 18, and more will keep coming for the next three months.
What to know:
- Superloads are big—over 16 feet wide on interstates or 14 feet wide on two-lane highways, more than 17 feet high, or roughly over 150 feet long.
- These loads creep along at about 10–30 mph. Most will use U.S. 730, OR 37, I-84 in Pendleton, U.S. 395, U.S. 26, and OR 201.
- Nighttime runs take the superloads from Port of Morrow through Pilot Rock. Past Pilot Rock, they move during day and night hours.
- When not moving, these shipments park off the shoulder—not blocking traffic.
- On two-lane highways, both lanes will be used, so expect stops and delays. Pilot cars and flaggers will help guide everyone safely along the route.
Prepping the route: On June 20, contractors in John Day will raise traffic lights so the oversize shipments can get through without hanging up. Flaggers will handle traffic while work is ongoing, and the signals will be lowered again once all loads are gone at the end of summer, according to Oregon DOT.
No hazardous materials, fuel, or liquids are in these shipments.