Big Trucks Parking on Perdido Key Multi-Use Path Is Creating Concerns among Residents

A concerned resident sent the above photos of what he sees on a regular basis:  Large delivery trucks parking on our soon-to-be completed Perdido Key Multi-Use Path in District 1.

I'm sure parking this way makes the stops easier for the drivers--however these large trucks and their incredible weight could crack and damage the 4" to 5" thick concrete that the path is made of.  A Perdido Key resident sent me these photos and even calculated the weight of these trucks if they are carrying a full load.

From the resident:

"The approximate weight of a 16-wheel tractor semi-trailer full of beer cases depends on several factors, including the type and number of beer cases, the weight of the tractor and trailer, and any additional cargo. Let's break down the components to estimate the total weight:

 1. **Weight of the Empty Tractor and Semi-Trailer:**

  - An average 16-wheel tractor (also known as an 18-wheeler with two wheels off the ground) typically weighs around 15,000 to 20,000 pounds.

  - An empty semi-trailer usually weighs between 10,000 and 15,000 pounds.

  - So, the combined weight of an empty tractor and semi-trailer is roughly 25,000 to 35,000 pounds.

 2. **Weight of the Beer Cases:**

  - The standard weight of a case of beer (24 12-ounce bottles or cans) is approximately 36 pounds.

  - The maximum legal payload for a typical semi-trailer is around 45,000 pounds.

 3. **Total Weight Calculation:**

  - If the trailer is loaded to its maximum legal payload, the total weight of the cargo would be around 45,000 pounds of beer cases.

  - Adding the weight of the empty tractor and trailer (25,000 to 35,000 pounds), the total weight would be:

    - Lower estimate: 25,000 pounds (empty tractor and trailer) + 45,000 pounds (beer cases) = 70,000 pounds

    - Upper estimate: 35,000 pounds (empty tractor and trailer) + 45,000 pounds (beer cases) = 80,000 pounds

 Therefore, the approximate weight of a 16-wheel tractor semi-trailer full of beer cases would range from 70,000 to 80,000 pounds."

I have spoken to staff about this concern and we are looking at ways we can put a stop to this.

Obviously, before there was a path, the drivers couldn't park this way or they would have been stuck in the sand.  

We need to go back to the way these delivery drivers delivered before the path was constructed--otherwise we are going to have damage that county taxpayers will be on the hook to pick up.

We don't necessarily want ugly bollards --but we have to do something to stop this.

Look for more discussion on this going forward until we come to an appropriate solution