AGENCY:

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

ACTION:

Final rule.

SUMMARY:

This final rule implements Section 5516, “Additional State Authority,” of the Fixing America's Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, which provides the State of South Dakota with the opportunity to update and revise the routes for Longer Combination Vehicles (LCV) and commercial motor vehicles (CMV) with two or more cargo-carrying units.

DATES:

This rule is effective September 23, 2019.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Vince Mantero, FHWA Office of Freight Management and Operations, (202) 366-2997, or by email at Vince.Mantero@dot.gov, or William Winne, FHWA Office of the Chief Counsel, (202) 366-1397, or by email at William.Winne@dot.gov. Business hours for FHWA are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., e.t., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Electronic Access

The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), the comments received, and this document may be viewed online through the Federal eRulemaking portal at: http://www.regulations.gov under docket ID FHWA-2018-0042. Copies of this document also may be downloaded by accessing the Office of the Federal Register's home page at: http://www.archives.gov or the Government Publishing Office's web page at: http://www.gpoaccess.gov/​nara.

Background

The Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991 (Pub. L. 102-240, 105 Stat. 1914, Dec. 18, 1991) restricts the operation of LCVs on the Interstate Highway System (Sec. 1023(b), 105 Stat. 1952) and CMV combinations with two or more cargo-carrying units on the National Network (NN) (Sec. 4006, 105 Stat. 2148) to the types of vehicles in use on or before June 1, 1991, subject to whatever State rules, regulations, or restrictions were in effect on that date. A listing of these vehicles and restrictions is found in 23 CFR part 658, Appendix C.

The FHWA is modifying its regulations, as found in 23 CFR part 658, Appendix C, governing vehicles covered by 23 U.S.C. 127(d) (LCVs) and 49 U.S.C. 31112 (CMVs with two or more cargo-carrying units) in the State of South Dakota, as proposed in a NPRM published on February 6, 2019, at 84 FR 2071.

This action is necessary to implement the provisions of Section 5516 of the FAST Act, which provides South Dakota the opportunity to update and revise the routes designated as qualifying Federal-aid Primary System highways as long as the update shifts routes to divided highways or does not increase centerline miles by more than 5 percent and is expected to increase safety performance. The FAST Act Conference Report to Accompany H.R. 22 (House of Representatives 114th Congress 1st Session Report 114-357, December 1, 2015) states, “Conferees expect that the implementation of section 5516 will provide the maximum flexibility possible to re-route longer combination vehicles in the affected State to divided highways, highway facilities designed for freight transportation, or along routes that will enhance overall highway safety.”

In an August 30, 2016, letter to FHWA, the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) requested that FHWA add the additional routes for South Dakota's LCV network and provided a map and listing of those routes.

All of the proposed routes are on the NN, which is comprised of the Interstate Highway System and routes designated as qualifying Federal-aid Primary System highways. Combinations with a cargo-carrying length of 81.5 feet or less may use all NN routes. Combinations with a cargo-carrying length over 81.5 feet are restricted to the Interstate System and the routes listed in 23 CFR part 658, Appendix C. This listing of routes is applicable to both double trailers and triple trailers.

There were errors in the tables published in the “Background” section of the NPRM, on page 2075, regarding existing and proposed routes of operation for LCVs and trucks in excess of the lengths designated by the Surface Transportation Assistance Act (STAA) of 1982 for use on the NN. The route segments that were incorrect include a portion of US 14 and US 14B in Pierre, South Dakota. In addition, incorrect mileage is shown on several existing and proposed routes. The correct routes were provided to FHWA in a letter from the SDDOT dated June 6, 2018, which was added to the docket for this rulemaking. Nevertheless, all routes identified in the regulatory text of the NPRM were correct and included both existing and proposed routes of operation for LCVs and trucks over STAA lengths on the NN.

The FHWA finds that this update shifts routes to divided highways or does not increase centerline miles by more than 5 percent and is expected to increase safety performance. Based on this information and the comments received, FHWA is revising the Federal Regulations at 23 CFR part 658, Appendix C for vehicles covered by 23 U.S.C. 127(d) (LCVs), and 49 U.S.C. 31112 (CMVs with two or more cargo-carrying units), in the State of South Dakota.

The revised routes are as follows:

Summary of Comments and Responses

The FHWA received eight comments to the docket in response to the NPRM. Comments were submitted by two individuals, one State government agency (SDDOT), and four industry associations (the American Trucking Associations, the South Dakota Trucking Association, the South Dakota Agri-Business Association, and the South Dakota Retailers Association), and one trucking company.

A majority of the commenters expressed strong support for the proposed revisions, while one individual commenter opposed the proposed additional routes and length allowances.

Commenters in support of the updated routes expressed their opinion that the additional routes would overall improve highway safety and efficiency. One commenter thought the additional routes pose a safety threat to the driving public if the LCVs were to be allowed to operate along mixed travel lanes, but this commenter did not provide any data in support of this assertion.

The owner and operator of the highway system in South Dakota, SDDOT, presented a Safety Assessment in its June 6, 2018, letter addressing how it concludes the expanded access would improve traffic safety. The SDDOT asserted, for example, that hauling with LCVs would reduce the number of vehicles needed to carry payload, proportionally reducing the number of crashes, and that expanding the number and extent of routes would allow LCVs to take more direct and suitable routes, reducing miles traveled, accident exposure, fuel consumption, and vehicle emissions. The letter also concludes that none of the rural segments demonstrate unusual crash histories indicating marginal or hazardous operating conditions for commercial vehicles. The FHWA concurs with this Safety Assessment.

Based on the comments received, the SDDOT transmittal letter of June 6, 2018, and the authority provided in FAST Act Section 5516 for the State of South Dakota, FHWA concurs with the additional routes and vehicles as proposed by the SDDOT, for addition to 23 CFR part 658, appendix C.

Executive Order 13771 (Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs), Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory Planning and Review), Executive Order 13563 (Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review), and DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures

The FHWA has determined that this action does not constitute a significant regulatory action within the meaning of Executive Order (E.O.) 12866 or within the meaning of DOT regulatory policies and procedures. The amendments update and revise the routes of the vehicles covered by 23 U.S.C. 127(d) (LCVs), and 49 U.S.C. 31112 (CMVs with two or more cargo-carrying units), in South Dakota, as found in 23 CFR part 658, appendix C. In addition, this action complies with the principles of E.O. 13563. After evaluating the costs and benefits of these amendments, FHWA finds that the economic impact of this rulemaking would be minimal. These changes are not anticipated to adversely affect, in any material way, any sector of the economy. In addition, these changes will not create a serious inconsistency with any other agency's action or materially alter the budgetary impact of any entitlements, grants, user fees, or loan programs. The FHWA anticipates that the economic impact of this rulemaking will be minimal; therefore, a full regulatory evaluation is not necessary. Finally, this rule is not an E.O. 13771 regulatory action because it is not significant under E.O. 12866.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

In compliance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act (Pub. L. 96-354; 5 U.S.C. 60l-612), FHWA has evaluated the effects of this action on small entities, such as local governments and businesses. Based on the evaluation, FHWA anticipates that this action would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The proposed amendments would update the routes of the vehicles covered by 23 U.S.C. 127(d) (LCVs), and 49 U.S.C. 31112 (CMVs with two or more cargo-carrying units), in South Dakota, as found in 23 CFR part 658, appendix C. Therefore, I certify that this action would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

The FHWA has determined that this action would not impose unfunded mandates as defined by the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-4, March 22, 1995, 109 Stat. 48). The actions in this final rule would not result in the expenditure by State, local, and Tribal governments, in the aggregate, or by the private sector, of $155 million or more in any 1 year (when adjusted for inflation) in 2014 dollars for either State, local, and Tribal governments in the aggregate, or by the private sector.

Executive Order 13132 (Federalism Assessment)

The FHWA has analyzed this rule in accordance with the principles and criteria contained in E.O. 13132. The FHWA has determined that this action would not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a federalism assessment. The FHWA has also determined that this action would not preempt any State law or State regulation or affect the States' ability to discharge traditional State governmental functions.

Executive Order 12372 (Intergovernmental Review)

The regulations implementing E.O. 12372 regarding intergovernmental consultation on Federal programs and activities apply to this program. This E.O. applies because State and local governments would be directly affected by the regulation, which is a condition of Federal highway funding. Local entities should refer to the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance Program Number 20.205, Highway Planning and Construction, for further information.

Paperwork Reduction Act

Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (PRA) (44 U.S.C. 3501, et seq.), Federal agencies must obtain approval from the Office of Management and Budget for each collection of information they conduct, sponsor, or require through regulations. The FHWA has determined that the rule does not contain collection of information requirements for the purposes of the PRA.

National Environmental Policy Act

The FHWA has analyzed this rule for the purposes of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321, et seq.). Agencies are required to adopt implementing procedures for NEPA that establish specific criteria for, and identification of, three classes of actions: Those that normally require preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement; those that normally require preparation of an Environmental Assessment; and those that are categorically excluded from further NEPA review (40 CFR 1507.3(b)). The action is the amendment to the routes listed for vehicles covered by 23 U.S.C. 127(d) (LCVs), and 49 U.S.C. 31112 (CMVs with two or more cargo-carrying units) in South Dakota as found in 23 CFR part 658, Appendix C, as allowed by Section 5516 of the FAST Act. This action qualifies for categorical exclusions under 23 CFR 771.117(c)(20) (promulgation of rules, regulations, and directives). The FHWA has evaluated whether the action would involve unusual circumstances or extraordinary circumstances and has determined that this rulemaking action would not involve such circumstances. As a result, FHWA finds that this rulemaking would not result in significant impacts on the human environment.

Executive Order 13175 (Tribal Consultation)

The FHWA has analyzed this rule under E.O. 13175, and believes that it would not have substantial direct effects on one or more Indian Tribes, would not impose substantial direct compliance costs on Indian Tribal governments, and would not preempt Tribal law. This rule would not impose any direct compliance requirements on Indian Tribal governments nor would it have any economic or other impacts on the viability of Indian Tribes. Therefore, a Tribal summary impact statement is not required.

Executive Order 13211 (Energy Effects)

The FHWA has analyzed this rule under E.O. 13211, Actions Concerning Regulations that Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use. The FHWA has determined that this action is not a significant energy action under the E.O. and is not likely to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy. Therefore, a Statement of Energy Effects is not required.

Executive Order 12630 (Taking of Private Property)

The FHWA has analyzed this rule under E.O. 12630, Governmental Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property Rights. The FHWA does not anticipate that this action would affect a taking of private property or otherwise have taking implications under E.O. 12630.

Executive Order 12988 (Civil Justice Reform)

This action meets applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of E.O. 12988, Civil Justice Reform, to minimize litigation, eliminate ambiguity, and reduce burden.

Executive Order 13045 (Protection of Children)

The FHWA has analyzed this action under E.O. 13045, Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks. The FHWA certifies that this action would not cause an environmental risk to health or safety that may disproportionately affect children.

Regulation Identifier Number

A Regulation Identifier Number (RIN) is assigned to each regulatory action listed in the Unified Agenda of Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. The Regulatory Information Service Center publishes the Unified Agenda in the spring and fall of each year. The RIN number contained in the heading of this document can be used to cross-reference this action with the Unified Agenda.

List of Subjects in 23 CFR Part 658

• Grant programs-transportation
• Highways and roads
• Motor carrier size and weight

In consideration of the foregoing, FHWA amends 23 CFR part 658 as follows:

PART 658—TRUCK SIZE AND WEIGHT, ROUTE DESIGNATIONS-LENGTH, WIDTH AND WEIGHT LIMITATIONS

1. The authority citation for part 658 is amended to read as follows:

Authority: 23 U.S.C. 127 and 315; 49 U.S.C. 31111, 31112, and 31114; sec. 347, Pub. L. 108-7, 117 Stat. 419; sec. 756, Pub. L. 109-58, 119 Stat. 829; sec. 1309, Pub. L. 109-59, 119 Stat. 1219; sec. 115, Pub. L. 109-115, 119 Stat. 2408; sec. 5516, Pub. L. 114-94, 129 Stat. 1312, 1557; 49 CFR 1.81(a)(3).

2. Amend appendix C to part 658 by revising the entry for “State: South Dakota, Combination: Truck tractor and two trailing units—LVC” to read as follows:

Appendix C to Part 658—Trucks Over 80,000 Pounds on the Interstate System and Trucks Over STAA Lengths on the National Network

State: South Dakota.

Combination: Truck tractor and two trailing units—LCV.

Length of Cargo-Carrying Units: 100 feet.

Maximum Allowable Gross Weight: 129,000 pounds.

Operational Conditions:

Weight: For all combinations, the maximum gross weight on two or more consecutive axles is limited by the Federal Bridge Formula but cannot exceed 129,000 pounds. The weight on single axles or tandem axles spaced 40 inches or less apart may not exceed 20,000 pounds. Tandem axles spaced more than 40 inches but 96 inches or less may not exceed 34,000 pounds. Two consecutive sets of tandem axles may carry a gross load of 34,000 pounds each, provided the overall distance between the first and last axles of the tandems is 36 feet or more. The weight on the steering axle may not exceed 600 pounds per inch of tire width.

For combinations with a cargo-carrying length greater than 81.5 feet the following additional regulations also apply. The weight on all axles (other than the steering axle) may not exceed 500 pounds per inch of tire width. Lift axles and belly axles are not considered load-carrying axles and will not count when determining allowable vehicle weight.

Driver: The driver must have a commercial driver's license with the appropriate endorsement.

Vehicle: For all combinations, a semitrailer or trailer may neither be longer than nor weigh 3,000 pounds more than the trailer located immediately in front of it. Towbars longer than 19 feet must be flagged during daylight hours and lighted at night.

For combinations with a cargo-carrying length of 81.5 feet or less, neither trailer may exceed 45 feet, including load overhang. Vehicles may be 12 feet wide when hauling baled feed during daylight hours.

For combinations with a cargo-carrying length over 81.5 feet long, neither trailer may exceed 48 feet, including load overhang. Loading the rear of the trailer heavier than the front is not allowed. All axles except the steering axle require dual tires. Axles spaced 8 feet or less apart must weigh within 500 pounds of each other. The trailer hitch offset may not exceed 6 feet. The maximum effective rear trailer overhang may not exceed 35 percent of the trailer's wheelbase. The power unit must have sufficient power to maintain 40 miles per hour. A “LONG LOAD” sign measuring 18 inches high by 7 feet long with black on yellow lettering 10 inches high is required on the rear. Offtracking is limited to 8.75 feet for a turning radius of 161 feet.

Offtracking Formula = 161−[161²−(L₁² + L₂² + L₃² + L₄² + L₅² + L₆² + L₇² + L₈²)]1/2

Note.

L₁ through L₈ are measurements between points of articulation or vehicle pivot points. Squared dimensions to stinger steer points of articulation are negative. For two trailing unit combinations where at least one trailer is 45 feet long or longer, all the dimensions used to calculate offtracking must be written in the “Permit Restriction” area of the permit along with the offtracking value derived from the calculation.

Permit: For combinations with a cargo-carrying length of 81.5 feet or less, a single-trip permit is required for movement on the Interstate System if the gross vehicle weight exceeds 80,000 pounds. An annual or single-trip permit is required for hauling baled feed over 102 inches wide.

For combinations with a cargo-carrying length greater than 81.5 feet, a single-trip permit is required for all movements. Operations must be discontinued when roads are slippery due to moisture, visibility must be good, and wind conditions must not cause trailer whip or sway.

For all combinations, a fee is charged for any permit.

Access: For combinations with a cargo-carrying length of 81.5 feet or less, access is statewide off the NN unless restricted by the South Dakota DOT.

For combinations with a cargo-carrying length greater than 81.5 feet, access to operating routes must be approved by the South Dakota DOT.

Routes: Combinations with a cargo-carrying length of 81.5 feet or less may use all NN routes. Combinations with a cargo-carrying length over 81.5 feet, are restricted to the Interstate System and: