Joliet Police Beef Up Commercial Truck Enforcement

The Joliet Police Department will now monitor and enforce regulations on commercial motor vehicles on evenings and weekends. The City announced the extension into evenings and weekends will be effective immediately.

“While the majority of semi-truck drivers are safe and observant operators, Joliet is taking a serious stance on those drivers who do not take time to map routes through Joliet correctly or who haul loads that are not suited for the route chosen. The safety of our residents and preservation of our infrastructure and roadways are top priorities for Joliet,” said Interim Police Chief Al Roechner.

The regulations were put in place to ensure the safety of residents and the preservation of roadways and infrastructures. Currently, three full-time patrol officers from the Joliet Police traffic unit, who are certified with the Illinois Truck Enforcement Association, monitor overweight/oversize violations for trucks that travel through Joliet. Since the initial truck enforcement patrol efforts began in August 2017, written citations have totaled more than $2.2 million in bond. The City first set forth an overweight/oversize permit fee in 2015.

The City Council passed truck ordinances that come with substantial fines for violators. Vehicles over the maximum weight on certain roadways can receive an ordinance/sign violation ranging from $500 up to $30,000 or more for state violations.

“Joliet fully recognizes the increase in semi-traffic over the last several years and that it is unlikely to diminish in the near future,” said Mayor Bob O’Dekirk. “Therefore we see the merit in increased patrol efforts combined with effective ordinances and permitting measures. With these safeguards in place, Joliet can maintain its status as a hub for commerce and industry without compromising its resident’s safety and quality of life.”

To avoid fines, commercial vehicle drivers are urged to use the City’s overweight/oversize permitting process provided by www.oxcartpermits.com Drivers can map out a safe passage, pay fees, and download permits through this system.

Image via city of Joliet