The persistent truck parking shortage in the U.S. remains a critical challenge for the freight industry. A new study by the American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) sheds light on how states are addressing this issue, particularly through public rest areas. This comprehensive research, done in collaboration with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), offers insight into current truck parking capacity, associated challenges, and potential areas for improvement.
The Scope of the Truck Parking Shortage
There is only one truck parking space for every 11 truck drivers in the U.S., according to estimates. While most parking is provided by private truck stops, public rest areas play a vital role, especially when private options are unavailable or full. Of the 47 states surveyed, 90% reported having at least one truck parking space at each of their rest areas. On average, each rest area offers 19 truck parking spaces, with Southern states averaging 25 and Northeastern states averaging 15.
Florida leads the country in total public truck parking spaces (2,100), while Alaska has the fewest (70). However, Alaska provides 95% of its truck parking outside of formal rest areas—mainly at weigh stations or old welcome centers—which often lack essential amenities or security features.
Public vs. Private Parking and Expansion Opportunities
The report finds that public truck parking accounts for about 21% of total capacity nationally. The public-to-private ratio typically sits around 1:4, meaning that for every public space, there are four private ones. States with the greatest opportunity for public truck parking expansion include:
- Louisiana
- Oklahoma
- Arkansas
- Texas
- Colorado
These states show a significant imbalance in the public/private parking ratio and have room for improvement to meet growing demand.
Amenities, Safety, and Maintenance Budgets
The research emphasized truck drivers’ preferences for key amenities and safety features. The top three most common amenities at rest areas are:
- Trash receptacles (100%)
- Restrooms (98%)
- Lighted parking areas (98%)
The least common amenities are:
- Walking trails (58%)
- Dump stations (35%)
- 24-hour security (19%)
Security was a particular concern, with a majority of drivers reporting feeling unsafe while parked overnight, according to earlier ATRI and Jason’s Law studies.
State Initiatives and Real-Time Parking Systems
Some states are going beyond the basics by exploring real-time Truck Parking Information Management Systems (TPIMS) and repurposing existing infrastructure. However, adoption of TPIMS remains limited in effectiveness—only 34% of drivers use it, and just 25% trust its reliability.
To help stakeholders, ATRI has also launched a Truck Parking Dashboard, offering state-by-state data on parking capacity, amenities, maintenance budgets, and safety features.
By analyzing this data and implementing strategic improvements, states can play a key role in resolving the truck parking shortage, enhancing both driver safety and supply chain efficiency.
Source:
https://www.truckinginfo.com/10239014/how-can-states-help-alleviate-the-truck-parking-shortage
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