Citing the need to aid the process of critical supplies state residents rely on can be more easily transported amid COVID-19, Arizona officials have temporarily waived certain commercial vehicle regulations.
Gov. Doug Ducey and Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) personnel said under the new guidelines commercial trucks with gross weights of up to 90,000 pounds will be allowed to operate without overweight permits, increasing the current limit of 80,000 pounds.
Ducey said the action helps ensure grocery stores are stocked and medical professionals and emergency responders have the equipment they need to stay safe.
“Responding to COVID-19 is an all-hands-on-deck effort and I’m grateful to the agencies and community partners that have stepped up to bring relief and assistance to Arizonans,” he said.
The weight limit adjustment applies to commercial vehicles providing direct assistance to COVID-19 relief efforts as outlined in a recent federal emergency declaration. The allowance includes, among other essential items, medical supplies related to the diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19, supplies necessary for community safety and preventing the spread of COVID-19, and food and household items for emergency restocking of stores.
ADOT temporarily reopened two closed rest areas near Flagstaff, Christensen on Interstate 17 and Parks on Interstate 40, offering parking, portable toilets, and handwashing facilities commercial vehicle drivers.