Public works director warns seasonal weight limits may return March 15 to protect frost‑susceptible roads

Broadwater County Public Works Director TJ Gravely told the commission March 5 the county plans to propose annual temporary traffic limitations on routes susceptible to frost heaving, with a likely effective date of March 15.

"We've done this the last two years and last year we put it as an annual basis effective March 15," Gravely said, adding that heavy loads traveling on thawing roads can "destroy our roads." He asked the commission to expect the item to appear on an agenda so the board can review the affected routes.

Gravely said the county will circulate a draft for commissioners to review and that Gaylene will place the specific roads list on a future agenda. He urged the public to attend the working meeting and warned that as weather warms, heavy loads will increase strain on county roads.

The director said the restriction is intended to protect rural routes from damage caused by frost‑related weakening in the spring and to reduce excessive wear on aging fleet equipment. Gravely also noted the county's equipment is old and that limiting heavy traffic during vulnerable periods helps preserve road surfaces and maintenance resources.

The commission did not vote on the restriction at the March 5 meeting; Gravely said staff will present details at the next meeting and hold a working meeting with the solid waste board and other stakeholders to discuss implementation.