Last modified: Tuesday, November 25, 2008 1:00 AM EST

Big trucks banned from some roads in North

NORTH ATTLEBORO - Commercial trucks will no longer be able to avoid traffic lights on Route 1 by taking back roads.

Selectmen have added a no through trucking restriction to Cumberland Avenue, Holmes Road and Hoppin Hill Avenue.

The decision came in response to an action-needed report filed by residents in the area who were concerned about large trucks traveling down the narrow streets.

"The side roads are the way to beat the lights on Route 1. Several residents have complained about the trucks," police Sgt. Fred DeMarco said.

Selectman Paul Belham asked how the commercial trucking restriction would affect residents who live in the area and who drive commercial trucks home.

DeMarco said anyone driving a commercial truck who lives in the area - or who has business at one of the homes on those streets - would have a legitimate reason for being there.

The restriction will only affect trucks that are passing through those neighborhoods.

The new restriction was passed unanimously by selectmen and will go into effect once signs are posted.