Extra Enforcement for Hwy 43 Bridge in Winona

Courtesy MTA

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is seeking assistance in reminding the users of Mn/DOT Bridge 5900 (carrying Highway 43 over the main channel of the Mississippi River) that the bridge is posted at 40 tons gross weight per vehicle. Mn/DOT's Weigh-In-Motion (WIM) sensors and camera have detected a number of overweight vehicles are still illegally using this bridge.

Please advise users that Mn/DOT has requested additional enforcement efforts of the gross weight posting on this bridge. The posting was put into effect last June to reduce stresses on certain bridge members and reduce the need for repairs and associated traffic interruptions. More frequent repairs may be needed if Mn/DOT continues to see loading above the posted limits. The Highway 43 Bridge is posted at 40 tons gross weight per vehicle, regardless of the nature of the load (no exceptions for timber or agricultural products) or winter weight increases.



Seasonal Load Limits

Courtesy MTA

Spring truck weight limits in the central frost zone will end at 12:01 a.m. on May 4. On May 8, weight limits will be lifted in the north central and north frost zones as well, the Minnesota Department of Transportation announced.

When the limits end for the north central and north zones, spring weight limits will end statewide. Mn/DOT lifted weight limits in the south, southeastern and Twin Cities metropolitan area frost zones on April 27.

Spring load restrictions dates and the six frost zones in Minnesota are listed on the Mn/DOT Office of Materials' Web site: www.mrr.dot.state.mn.us. Click on "seasonal load limits," then click on "spring load restrictions." This Web site contains the most up-to-date information on spring load restrictions.

The ending dates for spring restrictions are based on how weather affects roadway strength. These dates are established by monitoring roadway strength as weather conditions change. All changes are made with a minimal three-day notice.

For the most current information, please go to Mn/DOT's automated message center for a taped message at 1-800/723-6543 for the U. S and Canada; call 651/366-5400 for information about the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.


Barbara Kopka Promoted



Barbara Kopa has been promoted to Vice President of Drug and Alcohol Programs at Midwest Compliance Inc.



As a DATIA certified DER and CPC, Barb oversees all aspects of our federal and workplace drug and alcohol testing programs.

Midwest Compliance Opens New Site



We're excited about the opening of our new exam facility in the north metro area.

When your drivers need a DOT physical or a drug test, give us a call at 800-656-1396 to schedule an appointment.



We are located in the Truck Writers building in Blaine, on the west side of the 35W Service Road.




If you have questions, or would like additional information, give us a call we’d be happy to set up a consultation for you. Until then….take it one load at a time!