News Release: Ontario Implements Phase 2 Vehicle Weight and Dimension Reforms

For Immediate Release
July 2, 2002

Ontario Implements Phase 2 Vehicle Weight and Dimension Reforms

TORONTO — The implementation of Phase 2 vehicle weight and dimension reforms will support the development of a 'new generation' of trucks and trailers that will be safer and cause less road and bridge wear, the Ministry of Transportation announced today.

"The Ontario government is committed to working with the trucking industry to find alternative vehicle designs that are safer and less damaging to our roads and bridges," said Transportation Minister Norm Sterling. "These reforms support Ontario's commitment to safer roads."

The reforms deal specifically with lift-axle equipped dump semi-trailers. The ministry has identified these vehicles as a cause of excessive bridge and pavement wear.

The reforms will reduce costs associated with excessive damage to roads and bridges, especially for municipalities. This is the second group of vehicles to be addressed under the ministry's weight and dimension reforms. Reforms will eventually address all heavy trucks and trailers. At the same time, there is a need to ensure that existing equipment can continue to be used over the remainder of its normal operating life.

"The ministry recognizes that operators have a large investment in existing equipment," said Sterling. "These reforms ensure that operators are treated in a fair and reasonable fashion and protect the interest of small businesses."

Consultations around the next phase of vehicle weight and dimension reforms are expected to commence later this year. Phase 3 will address all remaining lift-axle equipped semi-trailers, including multi-axle vans, flatbeds, tanks and doubles. The ministry will work with industry representatives, including trailer and component manufacturers, shippers, fleet operators and owner-operators.

These reforms will help protect provincial and municipal roads and bridges, improve road safety and maintain industry productivity.