Oregon DOT places new weight restrictions on bridge over I-84 due to ‘wear and tear’ concerns
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) issued a “load restriction alert” for an overpass bridge over I-84 due to concerns over the structure’s age and condition.
On February 12, ODOT announced new weight restrictions on the overpass bridge at Mt. Emily Road over I-84 (Kamela interchange, exit 243) between Pendleton and La Grande, effective immediately.
ODOT says that the bridge, which was built in 1957, “wasn’t made for the large vehicles of today, and is showing wear and tear.”
See below for the new weight restrictions.
| Vehicle type | Vehicle type description | New max allowed weight |
| Type 3 | 3-axle single-unit truck (dump truck, concrete mixer, fire engine, no trailer) | 19 tons |
| Type 3S2 | 3-axle truck tractor pulling a 2-axle semi-trailer (standard 5-axle semi / 18-wheeler | 25 tons |
| Type 3-3 | 3-axle truck pulling a 3-axle trailer (heavy straight truck with full trailer | 22 tons |
| SU4 | 4-axle single-unit truck (heavy dump or service truck) | 19 tons |
| SU5 | 5-axle single-unit truck (very heavy straight truck) | 19 tons |
| SU6 | 6-axle single-unit truck (specialty or construction truck) | 20 tons |
| SU7 | 7-axle single-unit truck (rare, specialty industrial truck) | 20 tons |
| Emergency vehicles (2-3 axles) | Fire engines, rescue vehicles, ambulances | 22 tons |
ODOT said that vehicles over these weight limits will need to use alternate routes.
Officials plan to remove the weight restrictions after repairs are made to the I-84 overpass bridge during the spring.
ODOT stresses that the bridge is safe to use as long as vehicles respect the weight restrictions.