Truck Route FAQ's

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Why did the Truck Routes change?

A: Changes to the truck route were made to distinguish new routes for Heavy Vehicles, Over-dimensional vehicles and vehicles transporting dangerous goods in bulk. Certain roadways (Begg Street, Central Avenue) were removed from the truck routes because their geometry and road structure were not designed to accommodate large trucks. The new routes promote using the highway corridors as opposed to routing truck traffic through the heart of the City.

Q: Can I travel off the truck route (e.g.: Service Roads)?

A: The Bylaw states that vehicles exceeding 9000 kg must travel on the identified Heavy Vehicle route, unless in the process of a pickup/delivery, fueling or service. In those cases, the vehicle may deviate from the Heavy Vehicle route to conduct their business. However, they must travel by the most direct route to and from the Heavy Vehicle route.  

Q: Why was the Begg Street exit removed from the truck route?

A:  The Begg Street exit off the Trans-Canada Highway was removed from the truck routes due to the geometry and structure of the Central Avenue and George Street intersection. This intersection does not provide adequate stacking capacity which often caused vehicles to back up across business accesses. Also, there was recurrent infrastructure damage from large vehicles, resulting in repeated repairs.

Q: Where is truck parking allowed? 

A:  Truck parking is allowed on the Heavy Vehicle route unless it is otherwise indicated by signage. The service roads in Swift Current have been designated “No Parking” to all classes of vehicle. The shoulders on the service roads are not wide enough to provide safe parking. Parking on the shoulder presents a hazard to other motorists, parked vehicles, and pedestrians attempting to cross the service roads outside of marked crosswalks. 

Q:  Are truck training schools allowed to use City streets for training purposes?

A: Truck Training schools must apply for a permit for regular use of roads off the truck route. The City will provide a map of all allowed roads for training purposes to accompany the permit. 

Q: Is there a cost associated with any trucking permit?

A: No, a permit is free to obtain.