Low oil prices a bonus for railroad regulators

Lower gas prices have had an added bonus in Minnesota beyond fatter wallets: Train traffic is leveling off, giving regulators space to refocus on safety issues, a state railroad official told lawmakers Wednesday.

Read more in the St. Cloud Times.

Duluth officials oppose higher weight limits for trucks

The city of Duluth is lining up in opposition to prospective legislation that would boost the maximum permitted weight of trucks on state and local roads. Earlier this week, the Duluth City Council passed a resolution stating its legislative priorities, and went on record with its desire to block any higher weight limits for trucks.

Read more in the Duluth News Tribune.

MnDOT announces first statewide plan for ports, waterways

The first–ever statewide plan for ports and waterways in Minnesota, released Friday, will shape the future of a safe, efficient and cost–effective marine freight system for shippers in an era of constrained resources, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).

See the story at Northland News Center.

Big battle brewing over big trucks

Trucks are the moving force behind much our economy. But starting Monday, a new radio ad urges caution. The Coalition Against Bigger Trucks along with members of law enforcement are gearing up for a battle at the State Capitol over how much weight trucks can carry.

Read more at KARE 11 news.

Mandated Railroad Reports Highlight Farmers' Frustrations

In one week in October, 747 train cars operated by BNSF Railway were loaded with harvested grain and ready for shipment. Instead, they sat idle for more than five days.

See the KSTP story.

Truck weights article featuring ARM's Fred Corrigan

Increased truck weights approved by Legislature

With public attention focused on debates in the Capitol rotunda, a more select crowd filled a small conference room last week to fight over transportation legislation aimed a northern Minnesota. The concrete industry wanted to raise the weight limits on Minnesota highways so it could haul heavier loads.

Read more in the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

Inclusive truck weights legislation proposed

ARM is working closely with Senator Rod Skoe of Clearbrook to make Minnesota's truck weights law more inclusive or put another way, less "exceptional." Read more about it in our latest ARM newsletter.