Brake Retarders’ Use on Main Street Annoying to Residents, Council Told

The use by truck drivers of brake retarders on Main Street (Route 412) in Hellertown has prompted several complaints, borough council was told Monday night.

Borough manager Cathy Hartranft said “the complaints aren’t a lot, but they have come in” from residents who believe the noisy retarders aren’t truly necessary on the relatively flat main drag in town.

Council then discussed a proposal to ban the use of the brake retarders on Main Street, which members agreed needs further study.

Councilman John Bate said fire trucks often use “jake brakes” because of the amount of water they haul, and he said their use is “a safety issue.”

Although banning their use in residential areas is “a pretty commonly done thing” councilman Herb Payung said, he questioned whether the number of complaints about brake retarders would justify a ban in Hellertown.

Councilman-elect Earl Hill said the braking systems should be reserved for use in “downhill” areas.

“They’re not designed for Main Street,” he added.

“From what I’m hearing, I think there’s questions I think we need to get answered from PennDOT,” council president Tom Rieger said.

PennDOT has jurisdiction over Main Street because it’s a state road, and the borough would likely need to obtain a permit in order to implement a ban.

A motion by council to consult with PennDOT officials about a possible ban was approved unanimously.