Legislative efforts across the nation are starting to address truck parking concerns and are gaining momentum in various statehouses.
While truck parking availability remains an ongoing issue nationally, recent data shows notable improvements in accessibility. According to a 2019 Jason’s Law survey, approximately 313,000 truck parking spaces exist nationwide, including 40,000 at public rest areas and 273,000 at private truck stops.
In Georgia, a bill awaiting the governor’s signature proposes establishing a comprehensive freight and logistics implementation plan over the next 20 years. This plan would involve regular updates to state legislators on crucial projects, such as interstate widening, intermodal capacity enhancements, and initiatives to improve commercial vehicle parking and safety.
This legislative push follows a Senate Study Committee on Truck Driver Shortages, which highlighted the potential economic impacts of this issue on the entire supply chain.
The committee’s chairman, Jason Anavitarte, presented a 30-page report full of recommendations, including collaborating with the Georgia Department of Transportation to expand authorized truck parking options and curb unauthorized parking.
Meanwhile, in New Jersey, Assemblyman Sterley Stanley is campaigning for a bill that mandates large warehouse developments provide adequate on-site parking for tractor-trailers. The legislation aims to prevent overflow parking onto neighboring properties during the nighttime.
In New York, two bills seek to increase fines for improper truck parking, particularly in designated areas. Senator Leroy Comrie sponsors legislation targeting unauthorized parking on city streets, emphasizing the need to deter such behavior for the sake of community well-being.
The pursuit for suitable truck parking is particularly intense in Southeast Queens, where commercial trucks often occupy residential spaces during overnight shifts due to insufficient parking infrastructure.
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) advocates for quick and efficient action to expand safe truck parking, stressing its significance in enhancing overall road safety. OOIDA Communications Director George O’Connor emphasizes that truck drivers resort to suboptimal parking locations out of necessity when regulated hours expire.
Doug Morris, OOIDA’s director of state government affairs, highlights the Association’s commitment to addressing truck parking challenges.
“It’s time to actually produce the space and pavement for additional spots,” Morris said.
Source: Land Line
