BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Opponents of ExxonMobil’s request to send 207 huge loads of oil refinery equipment up U.S. 12 are asking the Idaho Transportation Department to deny the needed permits.
Opponents on Friday also requested a hearing before the department to present their case that the oversized loads will damage the economy and the environment. They contend a public hearing will end the agency’s behind-the-scenes dealings with the oil giant.
Some of the refinery equipment has already arrived by barge at the Port of Lewiston, and is awaiting special permits from Idaho and Montana to be trucked to the Kearl Oil Sands project in Alberta, Canada. Opponents fear these shipments are a first step in turning the scenic highway into an industrial route.
