By News Reporter Gabby Cedano
Clarksville residents should expect noticeable traffic delays over the next several weeks as massive industrial shipments move through the city.
Local agencies and first responders have been notified that a series of heavy-load transports will begin February 11 and continue intermittently into March.
According to information shared with the City of Clarksville, at least 13 oversized loads will be hauled by Roll Lift USA in partnership with Kuehne and Nagel Inc. The shipments will travel from Arcosa Aggregates on Barge Point Road to the expanding Air Liquide facility near Tylertown Road. Officials say the loads include large components needed for the plant’s ongoing project.
Each cross-city move is expected to take between four and six hours, although several of the largest loads may require two full days to complete. Some transports will be so large that crews will need to temporarily remove and reinstall traffic signals and other fixed structures to clear the path.
To ensure safety, each shipment will be escorted by at least four Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers along with additional support personnel.
Transport dates, subject to weather and operational changes, include: February 11, 13, 18, 19, 20, 23, 24, 25 and 27 and March 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10 and 11. Most movements will begin after 8:30 a.m. to avoid school traffic. Some loads are expected to reach extreme dimensions, measuring up to 30 feet tall, 25 feet wide and more than 200 feet long.
Clarksville Mayor Joe Pitts says the city will continue working closely with Montgomery County government officials and partnering agencies to stay prepared throughout the transport schedule. He says these shipments are part of private industry needs and their goal is to help ensure they move safely while minimizing the impact on the community.
City officials say all partner agencies remain updated on the planned movements and are prepared to adjust operations as needed to ensure public safety, protect infrastructure and manage traffic disruptions. As the project continues through mid-March, updates will be shared concerning scheduling changes.
Graphics courtesy of the City of Clarksville