Associated Press Published

Two Companies Sue Morgantown, State Over Truck Ban

MoTrucks.jpg

  Two trucking companies are challenging the legality of Morgantown’s ban on heavy trucks in the downtown business district.

Nuzum Trucking Company of Shinnston and Preston Contractors Inc. of Kingwood have filed a lawsuit in Kanawha County Circuit Court against the city, the state Department of Transportation and the state Division of Highways.

The lawsuit argues that the ban is unenforceable and usurps the DOH’s authority over the state road system.

The companies are seeking an injunction to stop Morgantown from enforcing the ban.

Morgantown’s City Council approved the ban in September. The ban applies to commercial vehicles with a gross weight exceeding 26,000 pounds that have a class seven or greater rating.

There are several exemptions, including trucks making deliveries and emergency vehicles.