An 18-year-old Wright Township man has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with a shooting last weekend that left another 18-year-old dead.
Alan Lopez is being held in the Ottawa County Jail on a $100,000 bond after he was arraigned in 58th District Court Monday by Judge Judith Mulder in connection with the shooting death Saturday night of Hector Enriquez-Rangel.
Ottawa County Sheriff’s investigators were notified by Grand Rapids police that a subject arrived at a Grand Rapids hospital shortly before 7 p.m. Saturday night with a gunshot wound. The victim was later pronounced dead from the gunshot wound, Sgt. Jake Sparks of the sheriff’s department said.
A forensic autopsy was conducted by Ottawa County Chief Medical Examiner Dr. David Start, with the cause of death being ruled a homicide, Sparks said.
Lopez and Enriquez-Rangel were acquaintances and the shooting is believed to have taken place inside a vehicle as they drove a maroon Chevrolet pickup truck in the area of Arthur Street and 24th Avenue about 6:30 to 6:45 p.m., Sparks said.
In addition to the involuntary manslaughter charge, Lopez is charged with carrying a concealed weapon and a felony firearms charge, Sparks said.
Alan Lopez is being held in the Ottawa County Jail on a $100,000 bond after he was arraigned in 58th District Court Monday by Judge Judith Mulder in connection with the shooting death Saturday night of Hector Enriquez-Rangel.
Ottawa County Sheriff’s investigators were notified by Grand Rapids police that a subject arrived at a Grand Rapids hospital shortly before 7 p.m. Saturday night with a gunshot wound. The victim was later pronounced dead from the gunshot wound, Sgt. Jake Sparks of the sheriff’s department said.
A forensic autopsy was conducted by Ottawa County Chief Medical Examiner Dr. David Start, with the cause of death being ruled a homicide, Sparks said.
Lopez and Enriquez-Rangel were acquaintances and the shooting is believed to have taken place inside a vehicle as they drove a maroon Chevrolet pickup truck in the area of Arthur Street and 24th Avenue about 6:30 to 6:45 p.m., Sparks said.
In addition to the involuntary manslaughter charge, Lopez is charged with carrying a concealed weapon and a felony firearms charge, Sparks said.
Moody’s Reaffirms Ottawa County’s Bond Rating
Ottawa County is proud to announce that Moody’s Investors Service has reaffirmed the County’s prestigious Aaa bond rating, the highest possible rating. The rating reflected the County’s strong financial position, responsible fiscal management, and robust local economy. Read the credit opinion released on February 20 (PDF).
Moody’s cited Ottawa County’s consistently strong available fund balance, proactive budget management, and modest fixed costs as key factors in maintaining the Aaa rating. The County’s financial stability is further supported by its growing and diverse economy, anchored by strong manufacturing, education, and healthcare sectors.
“This reaffirmation underscores Ottawa County’s commitment to responsible financial stewardship,” said John Teeples, Ottawa County Commissioner and Chairman of the Board. “Our strong reserves, prudent budgetary practices, and strategic investments allow us to provide high-quality services to residents while maintaining long-term fiscal health and keeping property taxes among the lowest in the state.”
Despite economic challenges, Ottawa County has sustained financial resilience through disciplined planning. Moody’s acknowledged the County’s stable financial operations, noting that even with planned capital investments, reserves remain strong and well above the County’s reserve policy.
“This rating reaffirms that Ottawa County remains a great place to live, work, and invest,” Teeples added. “We are committed to continuing our tradition of sound financial management to support future growth and community well-being.”
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Why are Bond Ratings Important?
Cost of Borrowing: Higher bond ratings typically result in lower borrowing costs for counties when they embark on a capital project, like a new building. A strong credit rating allows counties to issue bonds at lower interest rates, saving taxpayer money on debt service payments.
Investor Confidence: Bond ratings provide investors with an objective assessment of a county’s creditworthiness. Higher ratings indicate lower risk, which attracts a broader pool of investors willing to purchase county bonds. This increased demand can further drive down borrowing costs.
Access to Capital: Counties rely on bond markets to finance essential infrastructure projects, such as courthouses, bridges, or utilities. A favorable bond rating ensures access to capital markets and facilitates the timely execution of projects critical for community development and growth.
Financial Management: Maintaining a strong bond rating requires sound financial management practices, including prudent budgeting, debt management, and fiscal responsibility. Bond ratings serve as a measure of a county’s financial health and governance effectiveness.
Economic Development: Counties with higher bond ratings often enjoy greater economic stability and are more attractive to businesses and investors. A positive credit rating can signal a stable and favorable environment for economic development, leading to increased investment, job creation, and growth opportunities.
Reputation and Image: Bond ratings reflect a county’s reputation and credibility in the financial markets. A downgrade in bond ratings can tarnish a county’s image, signaling financial distress and potentially affecting its ability to attract investors and secure favorable terms in the future.
Moody’s cited Ottawa County’s consistently strong available fund balance, proactive budget management, and modest fixed costs as key factors in maintaining the Aaa rating. The County’s financial stability is further supported by its growing and diverse economy, anchored by strong manufacturing, education, and healthcare sectors.
“This reaffirmation underscores Ottawa County’s commitment to responsible financial stewardship,” said John Teeples, Ottawa County Commissioner and Chairman of the Board. “Our strong reserves, prudent budgetary practices, and strategic investments allow us to provide high-quality services to residents while maintaining long-term fiscal health and keeping property taxes among the lowest in the state.”
Despite economic challenges, Ottawa County has sustained financial resilience through disciplined planning. Moody’s acknowledged the County’s stable financial operations, noting that even with planned capital investments, reserves remain strong and well above the County’s reserve policy.
“This rating reaffirms that Ottawa County remains a great place to live, work, and invest,” Teeples added. “We are committed to continuing our tradition of sound financial management to support future growth and community well-being.”
—————
Why are Bond Ratings Important?
Cost of Borrowing: Higher bond ratings typically result in lower borrowing costs for counties when they embark on a capital project, like a new building. A strong credit rating allows counties to issue bonds at lower interest rates, saving taxpayer money on debt service payments.
Investor Confidence: Bond ratings provide investors with an objective assessment of a county’s creditworthiness. Higher ratings indicate lower risk, which attracts a broader pool of investors willing to purchase county bonds. This increased demand can further drive down borrowing costs.
Access to Capital: Counties rely on bond markets to finance essential infrastructure projects, such as courthouses, bridges, or utilities. A favorable bond rating ensures access to capital markets and facilitates the timely execution of projects critical for community development and growth.
Financial Management: Maintaining a strong bond rating requires sound financial management practices, including prudent budgeting, debt management, and fiscal responsibility. Bond ratings serve as a measure of a county’s financial health and governance effectiveness.
Economic Development: Counties with higher bond ratings often enjoy greater economic stability and are more attractive to businesses and investors. A positive credit rating can signal a stable and favorable environment for economic development, leading to increased investment, job creation, and growth opportunities.
Reputation and Image: Bond ratings reflect a county’s reputation and credibility in the financial markets. A downgrade in bond ratings can tarnish a county’s image, signaling financial distress and potentially affecting its ability to attract investors and secure favorable terms in the future.
Helen DeVos Launches Pediatric Critical Care Transport Team
Corewell Health Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital is launching a new pediatric critical care ground transport program to better care for infants and children who are critically ill or injured.
Serving Michigan and surrounding states, this pediatric critical care transport team is extensively trained in pediatric critical care and transport medicine, which is often lacking in standard EMS. The team includes nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses, respiratory therapists and a medical director.
Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, this new program essentially offers a pediatric ICU on wheels with highly-trained clinicians who can provide rapid assessment and life-saving interventions, while safely transporting patients 0 to 18 years from referring hospitals to specialists at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. The team will be able to provide advanced airway support, critical access to administer medications and other emergency procedures for infants and children.
Two new state-of-the-art ambulances were purchased and designed to meet the unique needs of pediatric patients. One ambulance will be dedicated to the new pediatric critical care transport team, the other to the already-existing neonatal transport team, which exclusively serves newborns needing intensive care.
In 2024, the neonatal transport team completed 324 transports from 29 different hospitals. The pediatric critical care transport team expects to transport approximately 400 to 500 patients in its first year.
The ambulances will be staffed in partnership with Life EMS. Dedicated critical care paramedics will be working alongside Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital providers.
The purchase of the vehicles was made possible in part by donations to the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Serving Michigan and surrounding states, this pediatric critical care transport team is extensively trained in pediatric critical care and transport medicine, which is often lacking in standard EMS. The team includes nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses, respiratory therapists and a medical director.
Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, this new program essentially offers a pediatric ICU on wheels with highly-trained clinicians who can provide rapid assessment and life-saving interventions, while safely transporting patients 0 to 18 years from referring hospitals to specialists at Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. The team will be able to provide advanced airway support, critical access to administer medications and other emergency procedures for infants and children.
Two new state-of-the-art ambulances were purchased and designed to meet the unique needs of pediatric patients. One ambulance will be dedicated to the new pediatric critical care transport team, the other to the already-existing neonatal transport team, which exclusively serves newborns needing intensive care.
In 2024, the neonatal transport team completed 324 transports from 29 different hospitals. The pediatric critical care transport team expects to transport approximately 400 to 500 patients in its first year.
The ambulances will be staffed in partnership with Life EMS. Dedicated critical care paramedics will be working alongside Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital providers.
The purchase of the vehicles was made possible in part by donations to the Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Foundation.
CAA to Hold Food Distribution in March
The Ottawa County Community Action Agency, with the help of local food pantries, will distribute the following nutritious foods to financially-qualifying households in Ottawa County: UHT 1 percent milk, farina, grape juice, peanut butter, peaches (canned), corn (canned), green beans (canned), elbow macaroni, chicken (canned), Swiss cheese and shredded cheese.
No advance enrollment or sign-up process is required – anyone who meets the income guidelines can pick up a food box from a distribution site or pantry. Income, residency and family size are self-reported and no documentation is required. Just show up, answer the qualifying questions and you’ll leave with food for you and your family.
Foods are available at the following times and locations:
• Friday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to noon, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 920 Fulton St., Grand Haven, (616) 846-2701.
• Friday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to noon, at Church of the Saviour, 180 N. 68th Ave., Coopersville, (616) 997-8050.
The following sites offer various food collection days and times all month long:
• Harvest Stand Ministries, 100 S. Pine St., Suite 100 (inside City on a Hill ministry center), Zeeland, (616) 741-8250. Mondays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Wednesdays, 1 to 6 p.m.; Thursdays, 9 a.m. to noon. Call for an appointment.
• The Salvation Army – Holland, 104 Clover Ave., Holland, (616) 392-4491. Mondays, 1 to 3:30 p.m.; Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 2 p.m.; Fridays, 9:30 a.m. to noon. Call for an appointment.
• Jehovah Jireh Ministries, 4055 Van Buren St., Hudsonville, (616) 209-7688. Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. More information available online at jjmwm.org/ need-help.
Those who miss the distribution can contact a nearby pantry to collect food.
The food is provided through the Emergency Food Assistance Program of the USDA. To receive food, the household must be at or below the income guidelines OR a household member must participate in an income-based food program such as CSFP, WIC, FDPIR, SSI, SNAP, or approved free and reduced-price school meals application.
Income guidelines are as follows: $45,180 for a household of 1, $61,320 (2 people), $77,640 (3 people), $93,600 (4 people), $109,740 (5 people) and $125,880 (6 people). For households larger than six members, add $16,140 for each additional member.
Ottawa County Community Action Agency is an equal opportunity provider. Call (616) 393-4433 or (800) 764-4111 Ext. 4433 for more information.
No advance enrollment or sign-up process is required – anyone who meets the income guidelines can pick up a food box from a distribution site or pantry. Income, residency and family size are self-reported and no documentation is required. Just show up, answer the qualifying questions and you’ll leave with food for you and your family.
Foods are available at the following times and locations:
• Friday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to noon, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 920 Fulton St., Grand Haven, (616) 846-2701.
• Friday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to noon, at Church of the Saviour, 180 N. 68th Ave., Coopersville, (616) 997-8050.
The following sites offer various food collection days and times all month long:
• Harvest Stand Ministries, 100 S. Pine St., Suite 100 (inside City on a Hill ministry center), Zeeland, (616) 741-8250. Mondays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Wednesdays, 1 to 6 p.m.; Thursdays, 9 a.m. to noon. Call for an appointment.
• The Salvation Army – Holland, 104 Clover Ave., Holland, (616) 392-4491. Mondays, 1 to 3:30 p.m.; Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 2 p.m.; Fridays, 9:30 a.m. to noon. Call for an appointment.
• Jehovah Jireh Ministries, 4055 Van Buren St., Hudsonville, (616) 209-7688. Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. More information available online at jjmwm.org/ need-help.
Those who miss the distribution can contact a nearby pantry to collect food.
The food is provided through the Emergency Food Assistance Program of the USDA. To receive food, the household must be at or below the income guidelines OR a household member must participate in an income-based food program such as CSFP, WIC, FDPIR, SSI, SNAP, or approved free and reduced-price school meals application.
Income guidelines are as follows: $45,180 for a household of 1, $61,320 (2 people), $77,640 (3 people), $93,600 (4 people), $109,740 (5 people) and $125,880 (6 people). For households larger than six members, add $16,140 for each additional member.
Ottawa County Community Action Agency is an equal opportunity provider. Call (616) 393-4433 or (800) 764-4111 Ext. 4433 for more information.
Hope Dance Marathon Fundraiser This Weekend
For a 26th consecutive year, hundreds of Hope College students are putting their time and talents into the campus-wide Dance Marathon fundraiser.
Organized by Hope students, the 24-hour event is conducted on behalf of Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in downtown Grand Rapids, both to raise funds and to build awareness of the hospital’s work.
It will be held at the college’s Dow Center, with the main portion of the marathon beginning with a kickoff celebration on Friday at 6 p.m.
The total raised will be announced during a celebration that will begin at 4 p.m. Saturday as the Dance Marathon’s 5 p.m. conclusion approaches.
Members of the public are encouraged to observe at any point. A variety of events have been scheduled to punctuate the marathon, including testimonies by families served by the hospital, various performances by student and local groups, and the popular annual lip-sync.
Activities on behalf of the marathon began shortly after the beginning of the fall semester and have involved more than 30 teams organized by student organizations or independent groups of students.
The 900-plus Hope students who will be participating in the Dance Marathon include not only dancers but morale boosters, and others in a variety of administrative and support roles.
To emphasize the children that the marathon exists to help, the Dance Marathon’s student organizers coordinate a variety of activities during the course of the school year to connect with families and children served by Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. In addition, each family is paired with one of the participating student groups.
Students involved with Dance Marathon have raised funds for the effort in a variety of ways, from a 5K Donut Run during Hope’s fall “One Big Weekend” combining Homecoming and Family Weekend; to writing letters to family and friends; to a silent auction.
Affiliated with the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, Dance Marathon at Hope is one of more than 400 such efforts at colleges, universities and high schools nationwide. Miracle Network Dance Marathon has raised more than $350 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals since its inception in 1991.
Dance Marathon first came to Hope in March of 2000. Though a school of the college’s size was only expected to raise about $5,000 in its first year, the students raised more than $23,000. In the 25 years from 2000 through 2024, Hope’s Dance Marathon raised a total of more than $4.4 million. Last year’s event raised more than $360,000.
Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital provides comprehensive clinical care to the children of West Michigan and beyond, and has consistently been recognized in the U.S. News & World Report national rankings. It offers advanced pediatric specialty care with more than 300 pediatric providers in more than 70 services and programs. Part of the Corewell Health system, the hospital offers advanced pediatric specialty care in 16 outreach locations and 50 regional clinics throughout Michigan.
In order to help support the vast number of children who visit the hospital each year, all proceeds from the marathon will go directly towards the funding of special programs that are designed to make the young patients’ visits to the hospital more bearable; helping the families of the children to deal with their illnesses; and supplies related to treatment and care.
Additional information about Dance Marathon, including how to make a donation, is online at hope.edudancemarathon.
Organized by Hope students, the 24-hour event is conducted on behalf of Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in downtown Grand Rapids, both to raise funds and to build awareness of the hospital’s work.
It will be held at the college’s Dow Center, with the main portion of the marathon beginning with a kickoff celebration on Friday at 6 p.m.
The total raised will be announced during a celebration that will begin at 4 p.m. Saturday as the Dance Marathon’s 5 p.m. conclusion approaches.
Members of the public are encouraged to observe at any point. A variety of events have been scheduled to punctuate the marathon, including testimonies by families served by the hospital, various performances by student and local groups, and the popular annual lip-sync.
Activities on behalf of the marathon began shortly after the beginning of the fall semester and have involved more than 30 teams organized by student organizations or independent groups of students.
The 900-plus Hope students who will be participating in the Dance Marathon include not only dancers but morale boosters, and others in a variety of administrative and support roles.
To emphasize the children that the marathon exists to help, the Dance Marathon’s student organizers coordinate a variety of activities during the course of the school year to connect with families and children served by Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital. In addition, each family is paired with one of the participating student groups.
Students involved with Dance Marathon have raised funds for the effort in a variety of ways, from a 5K Donut Run during Hope’s fall “One Big Weekend” combining Homecoming and Family Weekend; to writing letters to family and friends; to a silent auction.
Affiliated with the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, Dance Marathon at Hope is one of more than 400 such efforts at colleges, universities and high schools nationwide. Miracle Network Dance Marathon has raised more than $350 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals since its inception in 1991.
Dance Marathon first came to Hope in March of 2000. Though a school of the college’s size was only expected to raise about $5,000 in its first year, the students raised more than $23,000. In the 25 years from 2000 through 2024, Hope’s Dance Marathon raised a total of more than $4.4 million. Last year’s event raised more than $360,000.
Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital provides comprehensive clinical care to the children of West Michigan and beyond, and has consistently been recognized in the U.S. News & World Report national rankings. It offers advanced pediatric specialty care with more than 300 pediatric providers in more than 70 services and programs. Part of the Corewell Health system, the hospital offers advanced pediatric specialty care in 16 outreach locations and 50 regional clinics throughout Michigan.
In order to help support the vast number of children who visit the hospital each year, all proceeds from the marathon will go directly towards the funding of special programs that are designed to make the young patients’ visits to the hospital more bearable; helping the families of the children to deal with their illnesses; and supplies related to treatment and care.
Additional information about Dance Marathon, including how to make a donation, is online at hope.edudancemarathon.
ZPS Orchestra Students Experience NYC
Zeeland Public Schools orchestra director Marie Ten Elshof directs the high school orchestra during its recent visit to New York City.
Photo courtesy Zeeland Public Schools
Students from Zeeland Public Schools' high school orchestra recently traveled to New York City to learn, perform, and explore one of the world's most impressive cities.
During their trip, students learned about music history at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where they had the chance to try out a variety of instruments. They also participated in a clinic, receiving valuable feedback to refine their skills, and were thrilled to have orchestra director Marie Ten Elshof conduct three of their pieces.
Beyond music, students took in the cultural and historical significance of New York City. They visited the 9/11 Memorial Museum and Fountains, explored Chinatown and Little Italy, and marveled at the Statue of Liberty. A highlight of the trip was experiencing “Hamilton” on Broadway, followed by an evening in Times Square and a classic New York-style pizza dinner. An indelible memory for all of them will certainly be their breathtaking view of the Manhattan skyline at night.
This enriching experience would not have been possible without the dedication of district staff and volunteers who generously gave their time to make this trip a success. Their commitment to students and their learning extends far beyond the classroom, and we are incredibly grateful for their efforts.
During their trip, students learned about music history at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where they had the chance to try out a variety of instruments. They also participated in a clinic, receiving valuable feedback to refine their skills, and were thrilled to have orchestra director Marie Ten Elshof conduct three of their pieces.
Beyond music, students took in the cultural and historical significance of New York City. They visited the 9/11 Memorial Museum and Fountains, explored Chinatown and Little Italy, and marveled at the Statue of Liberty. A highlight of the trip was experiencing “Hamilton” on Broadway, followed by an evening in Times Square and a classic New York-style pizza dinner. An indelible memory for all of them will certainly be their breathtaking view of the Manhattan skyline at night.
This enriching experience would not have been possible without the dedication of district staff and volunteers who generously gave their time to make this trip a success. Their commitment to students and their learning extends far beyond the classroom, and we are incredibly grateful for their efforts.
Join Walk for Warmth Friday in Holland
The Ottawa County Community Action Agency (OCCAA) will host its 36th annual Walk for Warmth on Friday at 6 p.m. at EV Construction, 86 E. 6th St. in Holland.
This community event raises critical funds to assist financially-qualifying Ottawa County families who are behind on utility payments, providing them with a one-time emergency payment to keep their homes warm during the winter months.
In 2024, OCCAA raised more than $16,000, helping more than 60 households pay overdue utility bills. This year, the agency aims to expand its reach by raising over $20,000 to assist at least 100 households in need.
Walk for Warmth funds help bridge the gap when grant funds run out or when families do not qualify for other assistance programs. A gift of $200 can keep a family warm this winter. All of the funds raised stay in Ottawa County to help your neighbors.
The Walk for Warmth embodies OCCAA’s mission to reduce financial hardships and promote self-sufficiency for Ottawa County residents. By hosting the event in downtown Holland, participants can enjoy a scenic stroll along the snowmelt streets, making for a unique winter experience.
Families and individuals wishing to forgo the walk can still enjoy the event with games, face painting, and live music. Caribbean Sunrise will be selling delicious Puerto Rican cuisine, and attendees can also take part in a silent auction, enjoy cotton candy, snow cones, and more.
The Walk for Warmth is free to attend. Donations can be made at the event via cash, check, or credit card. Those unable to attend can donate online now or by mail at OCCAA - W4W, 12251 James St., Suite 300, Holland, MI 49424.
Participants are encouraged to register in advance at www.miottawa.org/W4W.
This community event raises critical funds to assist financially-qualifying Ottawa County families who are behind on utility payments, providing them with a one-time emergency payment to keep their homes warm during the winter months.
In 2024, OCCAA raised more than $16,000, helping more than 60 households pay overdue utility bills. This year, the agency aims to expand its reach by raising over $20,000 to assist at least 100 households in need.
Walk for Warmth funds help bridge the gap when grant funds run out or when families do not qualify for other assistance programs. A gift of $200 can keep a family warm this winter. All of the funds raised stay in Ottawa County to help your neighbors.
The Walk for Warmth embodies OCCAA’s mission to reduce financial hardships and promote self-sufficiency for Ottawa County residents. By hosting the event in downtown Holland, participants can enjoy a scenic stroll along the snowmelt streets, making for a unique winter experience.
Families and individuals wishing to forgo the walk can still enjoy the event with games, face painting, and live music. Caribbean Sunrise will be selling delicious Puerto Rican cuisine, and attendees can also take part in a silent auction, enjoy cotton candy, snow cones, and more.
The Walk for Warmth is free to attend. Donations can be made at the event via cash, check, or credit card. Those unable to attend can donate online now or by mail at OCCAA - W4W, 12251 James St., Suite 300, Holland, MI 49424.
Participants are encouraged to register in advance at www.miottawa.org/W4W.
Weight Restrictions in Effect on County Roads
Beginning at 6 a.m. Feb. 28, seasonal weight restrictions went into effect on all county roads under jurisdiction of the Ottawa County Road Commission (OCRC).
These restrictions are intended to protect the integrity of the road when frost is coming out of the ground. On roads with seasonal restrictions, normal legal loads must be reduced by approximately 35 percent and truck vehicle speeds reduced to 35 mph.
Why are seasonal restrictions necessary? As warmer weather sets in, thawing beneath a road’s surface increases, creating a saturated roadbed where water becomes trapped between the pavement and the remaining ice below. Heavy trucks and equipment traveling over these weakened surfaces can cause permanent cracks and other damage.
Enacting seasonal restrictions is based on multiple factors including solid frost depths, pavement and air temperatures, visual signs of pavement bleeding, pavement distress, saturation levels of roadbeds, and the ten-day forecast. Neighboring agencies work closely together to discuss these factors and align enforcement when possible.
The public can check the status of restrictions by calling the OCRC's 24-hour seasonal weight and speed restriction hotline at 616-842-0086 or 1-800-394-0290, or by visiting its website at ottawa corc.com/.
For truck-related inquiries, contact the Michigan Center for Truck Safety at 800-MTA-4MTA (800- 682-4682).
More information regarding OCRC's seasonal restrictions and transportation permitting is available at ottawacorc.com/trucking/.
Statewide weight restriction information can be found at: Seasonal Weight Restrictions - Michigan County Road Association (micountyroads.org).
These restrictions are intended to protect the integrity of the road when frost is coming out of the ground. On roads with seasonal restrictions, normal legal loads must be reduced by approximately 35 percent and truck vehicle speeds reduced to 35 mph.
Why are seasonal restrictions necessary? As warmer weather sets in, thawing beneath a road’s surface increases, creating a saturated roadbed where water becomes trapped between the pavement and the remaining ice below. Heavy trucks and equipment traveling over these weakened surfaces can cause permanent cracks and other damage.
Enacting seasonal restrictions is based on multiple factors including solid frost depths, pavement and air temperatures, visual signs of pavement bleeding, pavement distress, saturation levels of roadbeds, and the ten-day forecast. Neighboring agencies work closely together to discuss these factors and align enforcement when possible.
The public can check the status of restrictions by calling the OCRC's 24-hour seasonal weight and speed restriction hotline at 616-842-0086 or 1-800-394-0290, or by visiting its website at ottawa corc.com/.
For truck-related inquiries, contact the Michigan Center for Truck Safety at 800-MTA-4MTA (800- 682-4682).
More information regarding OCRC's seasonal restrictions and transportation permitting is available at ottawacorc.com/trucking/.
Statewide weight restriction information can be found at: Seasonal Weight Restrictions - Michigan County Road Association (micountyroads.org).
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