N.D. DOT asks Cass County for local input on adding 129,000-pound route to Enderlin

BRAD DARR, North Dakota DOT: "I request to be on your agenda today to discuss the state's limited 129,000 pound large truck network and get your thoughts for our directors and advisory committee consideration." Brad Darr, the state maintenance engineer, told the Cass County Commission that state law enacted in 2017 authorizes permits for combinations up to 129,000 pounds on a designated network and requires a formal process and advisory committee to consider additions.

Darr described permit types and fees — single‑trip permits, monthly and annual options — and said the department weighs economic benefit, pavement investment and safety when deciding whether to add segments. He said a recent request from Kurt Liebley seeks a short segment connecting to the ABM plant in Enderlin; parts of the route may be under city or county control so local decisions will matter for any county road segments.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions but took no formal motion. Commissioner Breitling noted the county has already approved a county‑level road system accommodating overloads, and Darr said the department will collect local input to relay to the advisory committee and directors before any change is made.

Why it matters: Adding a 129,000‑pound designation can change traffic patterns and maintenance needs on county and city roads, and could affect local grain, beet and freight operations that rely on higher single‑trip weights. The DOT presentation was informational; staff said they will accept local comments for the advisory committee’s review.

What's next: The DOT will gather feedback from the county and forward recommendations to its advisory committee; any formal route changes would follow the department’s established request and review process.