ConocoPhillips readying wide loads

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LEWISTON, Idaho (AP) — ConocoPhillips has begun readying two of four huge loads it plans to haul from Lewiston to a refinery in Billings, Mont.

Idaho Transportation Department spokesman Jeff Stratten told the Lewiston Tribune that his agency hasn't taken any action on the permits being sought to haul the equipment.

ConocoPhillips spokesman John Roper of Houston said Monday the company is being prudent in asking its contractor to be ready to move the loads if the permits are issued. Semitrailers have been attached to two of the loads.

Last week the Idaho Supreme Court issued an opinion that reversed a lower court's decision to revoke the ITD permits for the four loads. The ITD is leaning toward holding hearings on the permits.

Roper says ConocoPhillips won't act until Idaho reissues the permits.

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