The Washtenaw County Road Commission has imposed seasonal weight restrictions on about 1,500 miles of county roads effective at 6 a.m. Thursday.

The restrictions apply to trucks over 10,000 pounds, said Director of Operations Jim Harmon, and require haulers to reduce their per-axle load by 35 percent. The restrictions also require trucks to reduce their speed to 35 mph.

Recent thawing and expected rain in the weather forecast prompted the restrictions, which are imposed every spring to prevent potholes and other road damage. Harmon said they are usually in effect for 30 to 45 days until the roadbed is thawed and moisture in the soil diminishes to the point that the road is stable, Harmon said. A notice will be issued when the restrictions are lifted.

"It's very important that we use the weight restirctions to protect the roads during this period," Harmon said.

The restrictions reply to all but about 100 miles of all-season roads, such as Michigan Avenue and Jackson Boulevard.

For more information visit the Road Commission's website.