Imperial and ExxonMobil Pursuing Additional Routes for Kearl Modules, Reducing Size
Companies to continue to seek permits for original modules and routes
Imperial Oil and ExxonMobil are pursuing routes for the safe shipment of
smaller equipment modules for the Kearl project. The companies are
reducing the size and weight of the shipments and will seek permits for
an additional route that will use four-lane divided highways and not
require road closures or highway upgrading.
'Smaller loads will have reduced dimensions and weight. These shipments
can be moved safely and we are working with state authorities to confirm
that our transportation plans meet or exceed environmental and safety
requirements,? said Chris Allard, Kearl senior project manager.
The reduction in module size and additional routes are being made
necessary by lengthy permitting delays for the original modules size
shipments via US 12 through Idaho and Montana.
'We have met or exceeded the requirements typically imposed on other
oversize load shippers that have used the US 12 route,? said Allard. 'We
will continue to pursue the permits for those full-sized modules through
Idaho and Montana, which is more efficient and cost effective. However,
we will also move forward with alternative routes to maintain project
schedules.?
For shipments from the Port of Lewiston, ID, in addition to the Highway
12 route, the companies are using an additional route north on US 95 in
Idaho, then east along I-90 through Idaho and Montana, and north on I-15
to the Canadian border. Imperial began using this route in mid-July.
The companies are also pursuing a plan to ship additional loads from the
Port of Pasco, WA, by truck on US 395 in Washington and along I-90
through Washington, Idaho and Montana, then north on I-15 to the
Canadian border.
Imperial has submitted detailed transportation plans to regulatory
authorities in the states of Washington, Idaho and Montana that minimize
public inconvenience, assure safe transport and comply with all
transportation and environmental regulations. Movements will be
supported by appropriate traffic control and maintenance/support crews.
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Imperial Oil Media Relations
Pius Rolheiser, 403-660-5055 (cell) or
403-237-2710
or
ExxonMobil Media Relations
972-444-1107
