2/4/2011
ConocoPhillips shipment delayed until at least Saturday night (Feb. 5)
LEWISTON - An oversized ConocoPhillips load that was delayed in transit by freezing rain is expected to resume travel to Montana no earlier than Saturday (Feb. 5) at 10 p.m., assuming conditions are favorable, the Idaho Transportation Department announced.
The shipment of refinery equipment began Tuesday (Feb. 1) at the Port of Lewiston but was delayed temporarily near Kooskia after two nights of travel.
"We're only moving forward with the equipment transports when we're sure it can be done safely," said Doral Hoff, an ITD maintenance engineer. "Resuming travel is contingent on safe weather and driving conditions."
The oversized load and three others scheduled to follow are limited to travel between 10 p.m. and 5:30 a.m.
Each load is expected to take four days to travel from Lewiston to the Idaho/Montana border, unless delayed by inclement weather. The transport schedule is:
- First night: From Lewiston to a pullout two miles west of Orofino
- Second night: From the pullout near Orofino to Kooskia
- Third night: From Kooskia to milepost 126.2
- Fourth night: From milepost 126.2 into Montana
ConocoPhillips established a toll-free information line, updated daily at noon, for reports on the shipment. The number is (866) 535-0138. Motorists also can check ITD's Traveler Services website, 511.idaho.gov, or dial 511 for information.