MOUNT VERNON — Concern of excessive road use from oversized and overweight trucks was expressed when Knox County Assistant Prosecutor Chip McConville met with the Knox County Commissioners on Thursday afternoon. With the issues of fracking and brine hauling highlighting the news reports as of late, McConville explained that there have been reports of large drilling rigs setting up on sites in Knox County recently, particularly in Morgan Township.
Knox County Engineer Jim Henry has reportedly sent out contracts to drilling companies informing them of weight and size regulations of vehicles on county and township roadways.
“This allows them to apply for permits regarding size and weight of vehicles if they will have excessive road use,” said McConville, adding that this was done recently by the county engineer in Stark County.
“I’ve seen it ... it’s fine,” said McConville of the contract being sent which he is asking the commissioners to sign. McConville added that concern is also being stressed in protecting driveways and culverts with the use of heavy trucks.
“There are some real consequences for hauling overweight trucks anymore,” said Commissioner Roger Reed. McConville said that load limits can be reduced by 25 percent in the winter months when the “frost laws” set in, adding that truckers need to be aware of this as well.
Also with the contract proposal, Henry is asking the drilling companies to map out the routes their drivers will be taking, according to McConville. The commissioners gave their approval to the contract proposal.
