By MATT PIKE
St. Joseph Post
Missouri transportation officials are lifting some regulations to make it easier to transport large loads of hay to drought-stricken central and southern Missouri.
MoDot has announced an extension to permits for over-width hauling through March 1st of next year.
MoDot Project manager DeAnne Richabaugh says this single trip permit will allow for transportation of wide loads of hay.
"Normally a load cannot exceed eight feet six inches, but for those who are hauling double bales we might exceed eight feet, six inches," Richabaugh tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "So, for those who have loads that are wider than eight feet six inches, we still require a permit, but we will issue them at no charge."
The permits will only be valid in transporting hay through Missouri.
Richabaugh says these permits allow for loads up to 14 feet wide, and drivers should be aware of this when hitting the road.
"So, drivers just need to be attentive and make sure that if they go to pass one of these loads, they have a clear berth, and just make room, "Richabaugh explains.
The new allowance for travel also allows farmers to haul hay over the holidays and at night.
"So, these loads could be on the highway at any time," Richabaugh says. "At night drivers will see an oversize load sign that's reflective and there will be special clearance lights so other drivers can see the edges and know how wide the load is."
Single trip permits can be acquired by calling MoDot or by going on the MoDot website.
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