Super Load Nears Final Destination

LONGVIEW — The “super load” was back on the road Wednesday morning nearing its final destination at the Eastman Chemical Plant in Longview. TxDOT says the transporter made its way through Tatum in Rusk County, where residents lined the side of the highway as if watching a parade. The convoy hit the road just after 6 a.m., and reached its stopping point for the day on SH 149 in Longview at 9:30 a.m.

Officials say drivers should use caution and put safety first when trying to view or get pictures of the “super load.” Numerous people were observed driving by the location and taking pictures with their cell phones – while driving. TxDOT notes that this is an unsafe act and reminds drivers to keep their attention on the road.

The convoy will hit the road again just after 6 a.m. Thursday, three days ahead of its original Sunday arrival date with less than 10 miles left on its journey through parts of Texas and Louisiana. Its route will take it further into Longview on SH 149 turning right onto Hill Street just past Walmart before taking another right onto the I-20 S Frontage Road and into the plant at the Eastman gate. Not only will it be a very slow drive; the route also includes some difficult turns, so motorists are reminded to use other routes to avoid delays. While it is slated to reach the plant by noon, that arrival is likely to occur much earlier, according to officials.

Law enforcement in Longview will be assisting the convoy on the final leg. TxDOT personnel will also continue to monitor its movement through the area to ensure roadways are clear and that no maintenance issues develop from the heavy load, according to a TxDOT news release.

Revised Route and Timeline for Texas as of Day 6:

Day 6, Wednesday, July 22

9:30AM – Transporter stops on the right side of road at 11973 SH 149 in Longview for the day

Day 7, Thursday, July 23, 2015

6:00AM – Transport begins on SH 149 and crosses under high voltage cables at Knox Lee Power Plant
8:00AM – Transporter will turn right onto SH 149/Hill Street just past Walmart
9:00AM – Transporter will turn right onto I-20 S Frontage Road
10:00AM – Transporter will turn right onto Callahan Road at I-20
12 noon – Transporter arrives at Eastman gate