A recent law in Georgia has authorized the development of a comprehensive, full-scale statewide freight and logistics implementation plan, with a specific focus on enhancing truck parking facilities.
Governor Brian Kemp signed into law a bill that mandates the creation of a 20-year plan. This plan will include annual updates to state legislators regarding important projects, such as interstate and non-interstate road expansions, enhancements to intermodal or multimodal capacities, and, most critically, improvements in commercial vehicle parking and safety measures.
This legislative action came from a Senate study committee tasked with the goal of addressing issues important to truck drivers. In hearings a year before, the panel tried to assess how truck-related concerns could impact both the economy at large and various supply chains.
During the committee’s final meeting, Chairman Jason Anavitarte presented approximately 12 recommendations outlined in a nearly 30-page report. Among these recommendations were proposals to collaborate with the Georgia Department of Transportation to increase truck parking options while simultaneously curbing unauthorized parking.
Previously known as HB617, the newly enacted law acknowledges that the secure, efficient, and timely transportation of people and goods is vital for Georgia’s economic prosperity and the well-being of its citizens. Furthermore, it emphasizes that sustaining and including continued freight growth through corresponding investments is crucial for Georgia’s future opportunities.
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) has welcomed these developments, emphasizing that expanding safe truck parking facilities enhances safety for all road users. According to George O’Connor, OOIDA’s director of communication, truck drivers prefer not to park in hazardous locations such as road shoulders or off/on-ramps but are forced to due to the lack of regulated hours and inadequate rest areas.
Doug Morris, OOIDA’s director of state government affairs, highlighted the Association’s support for real actions that result in the creation of additional truck parking spaces.
While truck parking shortages persist nationwide, recent data indicates significant progress in availability. A survey conducted under Jason’s Law in 2019 revealed approximately 313,000 truck parking spaces nationwide, including 40,000 at public rest areas and 273,000 at private truck stops.
Source: Land Line
