LAKELAND - Weighing in at 440,000 kilograms and supported by 192 wheels, a supersized load will be transported through the northeast region over the next couple of days.
Transportation and Economic Corridors issued the load advisory Tuesday, warning motorists can expect delays as the slow-moving load travels from Edmonton to Fort McMurray starting on March 6.
"Motorists who encounter this convoy will experience delays. They are asked to watch for the guide vehicles and flag people and be patient while the convoy moves through the area," states a media release.
"The load will be escorted by four pilot vehicles that will block off lanes, close intersections and facilitate its movement along the route. At times, there will also be a police escort to control traffic."
Described only as a "super heavy wide load" at 8.7 metres wide, 10.2 metres high, 69.5 metres long, and weighing 444,000 kilograms, it will be carried by 192 wheels. No details as to what is being transported were provided.
"Due to its large size and weight, it will only travel at 60 km/h and will use the entire width of the highway, including the shoulder. At times, it will travel against the flow of traffic. In some areas, power line lifts will be required."
Route
The load will leave south Edmonton using the following route:
Day 1 March 6 (early morning)
- Exit from 9325 51 Avenue, Edmonton
- 51 Avenue Eastbound
- 75 Street Southbound
- Whitemud Eastbound counterflow
- Highway 216 Southbound counterflow
- Highway 14 Eastbound (Stage at 14/21 until daylight)
Day 1 March 6 (day move)
- Highway 14 Eastbound
- Highway 36 Northbound
- Highway 45 Eastbound (park at Two Hills Scale)
Day 2 March 7 (day move)
- Highway 45 Eastbound
- Highway 36 Northbound
- Highway 29 Eastbound
- Highway 36 Northbound
- Highway 28 Westbound
- Highway 63 Northbound (park at Radway scale)
Day 3 March 8 (day move)
- Highway 63 Northbound
- Highway 55 Eastbound
- Highway 63 Northbound (park at POE Staging area)
Day 4 March 9 (night move)
- Highway 63 Northbound
- Use ramps in Fort McMurray to avoid overpasses.
- Highway 63 Northbound (use Suncor Ramp to miss overpass)
