Untitled Document

ITD issues permits for ExxonMobil; approves transport of test load

This week, ITD issued a permit for Imperial Oil/ExxonMobil to transport an oversized test load on U.S. 12 beginning Feb. 22.

The department also began a contested case hearing process to allow opponents of the shipments to present evidence and testimony on the estimated 200 additional loads proposed to travel U.S. 12 from Lewiston to Alberta, Canada.

The permit issued is for a test load to assist Imperial Oil/ExxonMobil in validating planning for potential future loads. The load is 24 feet wide, 30 feet high, 208 feet long and weighs approximately 508,000 pounds.

"The test load was proposed by Exxon to verify its preparations," said Alan Frew, Idaho Transportation Department Motor Vehicle Administrator.

Frew's memorandum of decision states Imperial Oil/ExxonMobil's request for additional permits complies with all requirements and should be granted. The decision allows the hearing process to begin.

"My decision is based upon my review and consideration of all relevant documents received by ITD as part of the permit process, including the public comments received to date in regards to the permits request," Frew wrote.

ITD Director Brian W. Ness appointed Boise attorney Merlyn Clark as the hearing officer for the Imperial Oil/ExxonMobil contested case hearing. Clark also was the hearing officer for the contested case involving four ConocoPhillips oversized loads.

No timeline for the contested case hearing has been set.