Driving Change: Federal Funding Targets Truck Parking Challenges

The trucking industry, alongside organizations like TIA, has been advocating for increased investment in truck parking because of serious safety concerns affecting all road users. A recent Department of Transportation (DOT) report revealed that 98% of truck drivers struggle to find safe parking, often leading to unsafe or unauthorized parking situations. Additionally, 70% of drivers have had to violate federal hours-of-service regulations because of these challenges.

On Oct. 21, the DOT announced more than $4 billion in federal grants aimed at enhancing transportation infrastructure with significant national and regional impacts on freight movement. These funds will be distributed through the Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight and Highway Projects program (INFRA) and the National Infrastructure Project Assistance program, known as “Mega” grants.  Some selected projects will specifically increase truck parking along key corridors:

·         Nevada: $250 million INFRA grant to add 50 truck parking spaces along I-80 in the Reno-Sparks region.

·         Ohio: Nearly $18 million INFRA grant to convert rest areas on I-70 and I-80 into truck parking facilities, adding 138 parking spaces.

·         Wisconsin: $12.5 million grant to create 72 truck parking spaces along I-43.

TIA is committed to supporting funding efforts that improve freight movement efficiency, reduce congestion, enhance safety, and promote economic development.