Judge to decide Tuesday in oversized load case

LEWISTON — A state judge says he will take a day before deciding whether ConocoPhillips can begin hauling massive loads of oil equipment along U.S. Highway 12 in North Idaho. Last week, 2nd District Judge John Bradbury put a temporary halt on the company’s plans to truck four oversized loads along the federally protected scenic river corridor. Bradbury heard more than two hours of testimony during a hearing today in a lawsuit filed by three Idaho residents seeking a permanent block on the shipments. The Lewiston Tribune reports that Bradbury intends to review arguments and issue a ruling Tuesday. Opponents say the shipments would threaten public safety, pose a risk to the pristine corridor and hurt the region’s tourism industry.