Vermont § 1042 - Restricting the use of town highways

§ 1042. Restricting the use of town highways

• (a) The legislative body of a municipality may, with the approval of the Secretary of
  Transportation, designate highways and bridges under its control, except for class
  1 town highways, for use by specified types of motor vehicles based on volume and
  type of traffic and character of the neighborhood. However, when the legislative body
  of a municipality requests in writing, the Secretary of Transportation may set the
  weight limit on a class 1 town highway at less than the State highway limit under
  section 1392 of this title if a reasonable alternative route is available for those vehicles traveling at the
  State highway limit. When a highway or bridge has been so restricted, signs shall
  be placed in accordance with the provisions of section 1397 of this title. (b) In making the determination as to whether a reasonable alternative route is available,
  the Secretary of Transportation shall, at a minimum, consider the following factors: (1) whether the alternative routing will reduce or relieve traffic congestion in a downtown
  area; (2) whether the alternative routing will enhance safety; (3) the length of the alternative route and any increase in time made necessary by use
  of the alternative route; and (4) whether an adverse effect has been created relative to the quiet enjoyment and property
  values of persons living along the alternative route. (c) Any decision of the Secretary made under this section may be appealed, in writing,
  to the Transportation Board within 30 days after the Secretary’s decision. The Transportation
  Board shall decide the question within 45 days after receipt of the appeal and may
  take evidence or testimony. (d) [Repealed.] (Added 1989, No. 121, § 20b, eff. June 22, 1989; amended 1995, No. 119 (Adj. Sess.), § 3; 1999, No. 154 (Adj. Sess.), § 16; 2007, No. 164 (Adj. Sess.), § 63; 2019, No. 131 (Adj. Sess.), § 175; 2021, No. 20, § 239; 2021, No. 105 (Adj. Sess.), § 418, eff. July 1, 2022; 2023, No. 85 (Adj. Sess.), § 284, eff. July 1, 2024.)