Title
Truck Traffic along SR 91 and SR 303
Brief Description: Staff would like to discuss with Council restricting truck weight limits along SR 91 and SR 303 and designating an alternate truck route to alleviate congestion at the intersections of SR 91 and SR 303.
Body
Legislative History
None.
Purpose & Explanation
In July, a resident contacted the City to inquire about the possibility of restricting truck traffic on State Route 91 and State Route 303, as well as designating an alternate route to reduce congestion and maintenance costs at this intersection.
Because this topic had been discussed previously, with concerns that such a restriction might jeopardize federal, aid funding, staff followed up with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) for clarification.
ODOT confirmed that federal-aid funding eligibility is tied to a roadway’s functional classification rather than truck traffic volume, meaning a properly approved restriction will not jeopardize federal funding.
However, ODOT provided critical legal clarification regarding what types of restrictions are permissible under state law. Under Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Sections 4511.06 and 4513.33, municipalities cannot restrict truck traffic on State or U.S. Routes based on vehicle size, physical characteristics, or vehicle type. Any restriction must be based strictly on vehicle weight, meet established engineering standards, and receive formal approval from the Director of Transportation. ODOT strongly advised the City to consult its Law Director to ensure any proposed local ordinance strictly aligns with these statutory limits; the City Law Director has reviewed this guidance and is in agreement.
This clarification directly impacts the potential scope of any proposed restriction, as the City cannot legally restrict semi-trucks based strictly on size or configuration. A weight-based restriction could directly impact local deliveries, trash trucks, emergency services, and other municipal vehicl...
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