RELEASE: CONTACT:

IMMEDIATE Jeff Caldwell 804-524-6179 richmondinfo@VirginiaDOT.org Sara Cross 804-524-6387

RICH-70b Sept. 14, 2004

Increased Truck Checks on Route 60

HENRICO—The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Virginia State Police (VSP), Senate Majority Leader Walter A. Stosch and Delegate Ryan McDougle are working together to construct a truck safety and weight inspection turnout in Henrico County.

The Sandston turnout, located on Route 60 between Technology Boulevard and Rising Mount Zion Road, will improve traffic safety by aggressively monitoring truck traffic along Route 60. Scheduled and unscheduled operations will serve as a major deterrent to carriers trying to bypass the weigh station ultimately encouraging truck traffic to return to I-64.

“Commercial carriers have been using Route 60 to bypass the I-64 weigh stations, located east of Interstate 295, for far too long,” said Delegate McDougle. “By taking corrective actions to fix this problem, we are also able to reduce the number of commercial vehicles on Route 60; providing a safer and less congested road for our residents.”

Construction began on the site earlier this year and the scales are expected to be in operation Sept. 20. VDOT awarded MEGA Contractors, Inc. the $348,000 contract in January and construction was completed in May. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has installed the scales and will take over operations in conjunction with the Virginia State and Henrico County police.

Senator Stosch and Delegate McDougle sponsored legislation that sanctions the construction of this new truck safety and weight inspection turnout.

"The turnout, is an excellent example of the importance of a partnership between DMV, VDOT, elected representatives—particularly Supervisor Jim Donati for his efforts to bring about this solution—and the citizens of the surrounding area,” said Senator Stosch. “Working together, we are able to make our roadways safer and more efficient for commuters."

For information about other road construction projects, motorists are encouraged to visit www.VirginiaDOT.org.