The project is backed by a $24.3 million federal grant, along with $8.8 million from partner groups. Plans include seven underpasses, one overpass, and fencing running along both sides of the highway to help guide wildlife away from traffic and toward safe crossing points.

What’s Already Been Done

Crews made headway before winter set in. Around 20 miles of fence posts were installed, and dirt work was completed to set up detours around the future underpass locations. That early work is now setting the stage for a more active construction season.

What’s Changing This Spring and Summer

Starting in April, traffic will be pushed onto gravel detours around work zones. Those setups will stay in place as crews continue building the crossing structures.

Expect slower travel, uneven surfaces, and delays, especially during peak work periods. With multiple areas under construction, traffic patterns may shift as the project moves along.

WYDOT has already warned that delays should be expected.

Timeline Moving Forward

The work isn’t a quick fix. The overall project is scheduled for completion in October 2027.

“The contractor is working hard, fine-tuning the schedule and keeping things on track for the project,” Wyoming Department of Transportation Resident Engineer Jennifer Hoffman said. “If things go well, our goal is to have all eight structures constructed in 2026, weather and schedule permitting.”

As always in Wyoming, the weather could change that timeline.

Why These Projects Are Showing Up More Often

Wildlife crossings are becoming a more common sight, especially across Western corridors where animal movement overlaps with highway traffic.

While construction can slow things down in the short term, the goal is to cut down on wildlife-vehicle crashes. That can mean fewer disruptions, less damage, and safer conditions over time.

Colorado’s Recent Example

A similar effort wrapped up in Colorado in December 2025. The state completed what it describes as the world’s largest wildlife overpass over Interstate 25 near the Greenland Interchange.

The structure spans six lanes and reconnects 39,000 acres of habitat used by elk, mule deer, and pronghorn. Officials expect it to reduce wildlife-vehicle crashes along that section of I-25 by 90%.

Before it was built, the area averaged about one wildlife-related crash per day, according to state transportation officials.

The overpass was part of the larger I-25 South Gap project and, like the Wyoming effort, relied on federal funding and support from multiple agencies.

What Drivers Should Keep in Mind

If your route takes you through this part of Wyoming, plan for extra time and stay alert in work zones. Gravel detours and active construction aren’t going away anytime soon.

The end goal is safer roads, but for now, getting through the area will take a little more patience.

The post Wildlife Crossing Work Picks Up Along U.S. 189 in Wyoming appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Shaping America’s Infrastructure

“Providing opportunities for students who will shape America’s infrastructure is essential, and CIM excels in this through its programs,” said Clayton White, president and CEO of Alliance Concrete Pumps. “We’re proud that this truck sale significantly contributed to CIM, helping support both its education programs and its students.”

The funds raised will directly benefit the CIM program, which offers scholarships to students pursuing four-year Bachelor of Science degrees in Concrete Industry Management. This initiative supports future professionals at institutions like Middle Tennessee State University, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Texas State University, California State University – Chico, and South Dakota State University.

Esh’s Masonry Bids for Education

Esh’s Masonry purchased the Kenworth T880 concrete pump truck for $505,000, donating the full amount to the CIM education initiative. This substantial contribution highlights their dedication to fostering talent and innovation in the sector.

Kyle Kimball, Kenworth’s director of marketing, expressed his gratitude, stating, “Education is fundamental to building a stronger workforce, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to support CIM through the sale of this special Kenworth T880 concrete pump truck. We give a special thanks to Esh’s Masonry for purchasing this truck, which helped generate a significant donation to CIM.”

Built for Excellence

The Kenworth T880 is a powerhouse in the industry, boasting the PACCAR MX-13 engine and mounted with an Alliance Concrete Pumps 38M concrete pump. Additional contributions from key suppliers like Alcoa Wheels, Allison Transmission, and Cummins Driveline and Braking Systems (CDBS) enhanced the truck’s superior performance and reliability.

Commitment to Education

Steve Randolph, Papé Kenworth fleet sales manager, emphasized the importance of CIM’s work, saying, “Papé Kenworth is proud to have partnered with Kenworth and Alliance Concrete Pumps again to support CIM and its students through the sale of this Kenworth T880 concrete truck. Programs like CIM are essential for training future leaders in the concrete and construction industries. They play a vital role in developing America’s infrastructure.”

This year marks the sixth time Kenworth has collaborated with industry partners and suppliers to donate a truck for the benefit of CIM. Over the past four years specifically, Kenworth, Papé Kenworth, and Alliance Concrete Pumps have consistently contributed by donating concrete pump trucks to support CIM’s mission.

On Display at World of Concrete

For those attending the World of Concrete event in Las Vegas from January 21-23, the Kenworth T880 concrete pump truck will be a featured attraction. Stop by the truck, proudly displayed in front of the Las Vegas Convention Center, and witness the embodiment of industry innovation and community commitment.

Source: The Trucker

Image: Kenworth

The post Kenworth T880 Concrete Pump Truck Generates $505,000 to Support CIM Education appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Key Restrictions to Note

Though vehicles are now able to move, the interstate remains inaccessible to oversized loads that are more than 12 feet wide.

In a recent update on Facebook, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) stated:

“From MM 39 to MM 40, traffic will shift entirely to the westbound lanes, with one lane traveling each way. The westbound bridge has been given a temporary fix, allowing vehicles to safely cross the Nolichucky River.”

“Work continues on a permanent repair on the eastbound side. Once the eastbound bridge repair is complete, traffic will be shifted to the eastbound lanes so the permanent repair can be done on the westbound bridge.”

“Because the bridge is being shared by both directions of traffic, oversized loads CANNOT make it through.”

This partial reopening marks a crucial milestone, especially amid the ongoing closure of I-40 for commercial vehicles. TDOT appreciates the dedication of their team, stating, “We continue to be proud of the crews working to make this possible, even as we know the work isn’t over until every road is repaired.”

Stay Informed

For up-to-date information on road conditions and ongoing repairs, follow TDOT on their social media platforms and website.

Source: Truckers News

The post One Lane on Each Side Reopens on I-26 in Tennessee After Hurricane Helene appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“The reality is there’s never been a time when U.S.-Mexico trade was more important than it is right now,” said Mark Yeager, CEO of Chicago-based Redwood Logistics.

At a recent two-day gathering in Monterrey, over 75 shippers, tech firms, and trade experts convened to delve into topics like cross-border supply chains and emerging nearshoring trends.

“This is our Olympics, our World Series. It can be challenging, complex and can require patience and perseverance, but we also all know that that kind of complexity comes with opportunity — opportunity for all of us,” Yeager said.

In 2023, U.S. trade globally reached a staggering $5.1 trillion, with Mexico alone accounting for nearly $800 billion in trade, reaffirming its position as the top trade partner for the United States. Enhancing infrastructure across North America emerged as a central theme during the event.

“I think you’re seeing growth all across the U.S.-Mexico border … and Laredo [Texas] is where the rubber meets the road,” said Jordan Dewart, president of Redwood Mexico. “I think that’s where the infrastructure is headed. That’s where the main investment deals on highways to access the border are going. If you go to Laredo right now, the amount of new warehousing construction, new trucking facilities construction, is just staggering. There are miles and miles of construction. If you drive up I-35, you can see the dust clouds from 50 miles away from all construction. So I think everyone will benefit.”

Israel Delgado, CEO of Express Service Transport Inc. in San Diego, highlighted the regulatory challenges impacting the trucking industry on both sides of the border, citing Mexico’s Carta Porte Complement (CCP) as a notable example. The CCP, introduced in 2021 to safeguard the movement of legitimate goods within Mexico, has drawn criticism from trade members for complicating cross-border transactions.

Delgado, also serving as vice president of the northeast region of Mexico for Canacar, Mexico’s trucking chamber of commerce, underscored the country’s driver shortage issue.

“The lack of drivers is something that we need to take a look into,” Delgado said. “We’ve been pushing so hard in trade shows. We have 56,000 driver jobs open in Mexico today.”

Canacar, he mentioned, is actively promoting truck driving and logistics careers to address this challenge.

“A lot of moms want to jump into trucks, and I think we need to let go of the old mindset that women cannot do the job,” Delgado said. “We have less than 5,000 women participating in trucking. So we need to support women in Mexico and do whatever it takes.”

Marianna Raphael, the general director of Connecting Mexico, emphasized the imperative for Mexico to bolster cargo security measures. Connecting Mexico, based in Mexico City, plays a pivotal role in fostering investment in the country and advocates for initiatives aimed at enhancing security in cargo transportation.

“I think that security is a huge thing. Our current government has focused on the militarization of everything. They are talking about a more specialized military force to take care of security on roads,” Raphael said. “I do think that there needs to be a different approach on security, to show people that are afraid of having to drive or for companies, it’s good to know the government is there.”

Source: Freightwaves

The post More Infrastructure Needed to Boost Cross-Border Trade, Experts Say appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Commissioned by the Clean Freight Coalition (CFC), the study aims to provide policymakers and the public with valuable insights into the costs associated with this transition. The coalition, dedicated to advocating for reduced emissions in trucking in a financially viable manner, sought to understand the comprehensive expenditure involved in upgrading infrastructure.

“The Clean Freight Coalition is an alliance of transportation stakeholders committed to a clean energy future,” said Jim Mullen, CFC executive director. “We found that there was a void in information relative to this transition as it relates to the buildup of the nation’s electrical infrastructure, including the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity to electrify all the nation’s medium- and heavy-duty commercial trucks.”

Roland Berger, a renowned management consulting firm known for its expertise in infrastructure, automotive sectors, and commercial trucking, was tasked with conducting the study. Their findings revealed a staggering $620 billion requirement for charging infrastructure enhancements, coupled with an additional $370 billion needed for the modernization of distribution grid networks.

“Our industry has an incredible pedigree and commitment to a clean environment,” said Chris Spear, American Trucking Associations president. “What Roland Berger’s study shows us is that this mad dash to zero exposes the supply chain to a $1 trillion unfunded mandate. This is not included in the latest Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This is a $1 trillion unfunded mandate that the supply chain, including our industry, is going to have to invest.”

While acknowledging the significant strides made in reducing emissions from truck tailpipes—by a remarkable 98.5% over the past four decades—industry experts emphasize the importance of a collaborative and sensible approach to emission reduction strategies. Rushing toward singular solutions without realistic timelines and targets may not be the most effective path forward.

“We looked at the Class 3 to 8 vehicles to understand how they are distributed in the country, what does this mean for the charging situation at the county level, what does it then mean for the investments that have to be taken at the fleet level,” said Wilfried Aulbur, Roland Berger senior partner. “Our calculations show that we will have to invest about $620 billion into charging infrastructure, which includes chargers, site infrastructure and utility service costs.”

Recognizing the financial realities of the logistics sector, which typically operates on a modest 5% return on sales, experts caution that absorbing such costs won’t be easy. Without adequate support, the transition could result in substantial freight rate hikes to cover expenses. Moreover, the estimated $620 billion budget accounts for both local and long-distance operations, highlighting the extensive scope of the required investments.

“For the local investments in on-site charging infrastructure, we would need close to $500 billion, to be exact $496 billion,” Aulbur said. “Then in addition to the local on-site charging, we need to make sure that there is also on-road charging available for higher-mileage vehicles, which is an additional $69 billion on top. So that’s the way this distributes.”

Furthermore, the development of these electrified highways faces challenges linked to the pace of transmission grid infrastructure expansion. The process, which involves securing necessary infrastructure and permits, tends to progress slowly, further complicating the transition timeline.

“Now, if we want to look at full electrification of long haul vehicles, that’s basically the challenge to electrify our highways,” Aulbur said. “That is going to need about $57 billion in additional investment. Again, a significant amount of money that needs to be spent. We’ve said it, infrastructure investment is great, it creates jobs, but we need to find a way to fund it.”

Source: Transport Topics

The post Electrifying the Trucking Industry Has a Hefty Price Tag — $1 Trillion To Be Exact appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Comprising 27 carefully selected members, the TTAC boasts a diverse range of perspectives across various sectors, geographies, and areas of expertise. The committee’s composition includes experts from academia, think tanks, the public sector, labor, and industry. These individuals bring their insights to bear on crucial topics such as automation, cybersecurity, safety, accessibility, law, government, entrepreneurship, privacy, and equity.

“We are living in a time filled with unprecedented opportunity and unprecedented challenges in transportation,” said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “The deep expertise and diverse perspectives of this impressive group will provide advice to ensure the future of transportation is safe, efficient, sustainable, equitable, and transformative.”

Members of the TTAC will serve two-year terms, demonstrating a commitment to continuity and the development of long-term strategies. Additionally, there is the possibility of reappointment. It’s worth noting that membership in the TTAC is an unpaid position, underscoring the dedication of these individuals to advancing transportation innovation.

The inaugural meeting of the TTAC is scheduled for Jan. 18. Among the key focus areas are pathways to safe, secure, equitable, environmentally friendly, and accessible deployment of emerging technologies. The committee will also delve into integrated approaches to promote cross-modal integration, particularly in the application of automation.

Policies that encourage innovation, support a safe and productive U.S. workforce, and foster economic competitiveness and job quality are essential components of the committee’s agenda. Additionally, the TTAC will tackle the development of approaches and frameworks that facilitate the secure exchange and sharing of transformative transportation data. This includes technologies and infrastructure across public and private sectors, aligning with core policy decisions across DOT’s strategic goals.

The TTAC will also explore ways the Department can identify and elevate cybersecurity solutions. Privacy protection across transportation systems and infrastructure will be a critical consideration in their discussions.

Source: The Trucker

The post Nationwide Transportation will be Improved by USDOT appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Electric trucks have become a common sight on sales lots, with most manufacturers now offering electric or hybrid-electric models. Major motor carriers, including J.B. Hunt, Walmart, and FedEx, have already integrated electric trucks into their fleets, primarily for final-mile, drayage, and yard tractor applications.

With individual states and the federal government adopting stricter environmental laws targeting emissions, the pressure on the trucking industry to transition to electric rigs is intensifying. However, the question remains: Are electric trucks a feasible solution for an industry deeply rooted in diesel fuel for over a century?

“As an industry, we continually strive to make the environment a better one for those that will inherit it,” said Dave Heller, senior vice president of safety and government affairs for the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA). “The evidence of the achievements our industry has already accomplished has demonstrated exactly that.”

As the trucking industry’s indispensable role in the global economy continues to expand, there’s a simultaneous reduction in its environmental footprint, according to Heller.

“Truck engines manufactured today emit 98% less nitrogen oxide and particulate matter than those built 35 years ago,” he said. “In fact, it takes 60 of today’s trucks to emit what just one truck emitted in 1988. The long-haul trucking sector has been developed based upon centuries of technological advancements that have gotten us to where we are today. It would be irresponsible of us to think that a diesel replacement won’t take just as long.”

While some states are pushing for stringent environmental laws, requiring trucks to meet ambitious environmental standards, Heller argues that the existing power grid is ill-prepared for widespread electric vehicle adoption.

“The reality is that as aggressive as these timelines are, we just are not there as a nation,” he said. “Electricity has shown tremendous promise, but today, it cannot replace the impact that the diesel engine has in serving the U.S. economy. A rush to replace it would serve as shortsighted and irresponsible at a time when the needs of the national freight system are so paramount.”

Concerns about electrification and emissions standards are shared by other industry leaders. At the Arkansas Trucking Association’s 2023 annual conference, American Trucking Association President and CEO Chris Spear emphasized the need to amplify the industry’s voice regarding stricter emissions standards.

The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Trucks Plan, specifically its third phase, has become a focal point in the debate over big rig emissions.

“Phase 3, on NOx, that’s the toughest stuff,” Spear said. “It’s like squeezing blood out of a rock.”

The plan aims to reduce the production of diesel-fueled rigs, replacing them with vehicles powered by electricity or alternative fuels. The EPA’s recent finalization of the plan in December 2022 targets a cut in smog- and soot-forming emissions from new heavy-duty trucks starting with the model year 2027.

While acknowledging the industry’s strides in reducing emissions from diesel engines, Spear, like Heller, believes that electric trucks are unlikely to dominate the industry in the near future. The debate over the future of trucking’s power sources continues, with industry leaders navigating the complexities of environmental regulations and technological advancements.

Source: The Trucker

The post Electrifying the Trucking Industry May Not be Anywhere in the Near Future appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Build America Bureau is pivotal in assisting communities across the nation by offering Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) loans and various financing opportunities, expediting infrastructure initiatives, and mitigating project expenses.

Spanning Chesapeake, Franklin, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Poquoson, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg, Hampton Roads is set to undergo a comprehensive $445 million project within the framework of the Hampton Roads Express Lanes Network—an extensive 45-mile system of uninterrupted express lanes along I-64.

“This project will eliminate a key regional supply chain bottleneck and has vast economic and job creation potential by providing a consistently reliable connection to Virginia’s port system, the third largest on the East Coast,” said Polly Trottenberg, deputy transportation secretary. “Additionally, the project will enhance safety by improving the emergency evacuation route for the region.”

Focused on “Segment 4C,” a critical 2.5-mile stretch from LaSalle Avenue to Settlers Landing Road, the endeavor is primed to introduce a full-time express lane, a part-time express lane, and two general-purpose lanes in both directions. Notably, Hampton Road Transit buses will have dedicated lanes, contributing to reduced carbon emissions and expedited travel times, which are expected to range from 10 to 15 minutes in both express and general-use lanes.

“Virginia’s innovative financing approach is helping to deliver these overdue improvements at a lower cost,” said Morteza Farajian, Build America Bureau executive director. “Additionally, with over 80,000 active-duty military personnel at eight installations in Hampton Roads, improving regional mobility is critical to national security.”

Source: The Trucker

The post Virginia’s I-64 Express Lanes Receive $141 Million from USDOT appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“The 10 projects selected for funding will help advance digital construction nationwide because they will serve as models for other state and local transportation agencies to adopt these best practices,” said Shailen Bhatt, Federal Highway Administrator. “With funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, these technologies will help us more quickly deliver the transportation system of the 21st century.”

Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the ADCMS program, which is part of FHWA’s Technology and Innovation Deployment Program, allocates a total of $85 million over five years. The grants act as incentives for state departments of transportation to enhance construction professionals’ access to meaningful, accurate, and user-friendly data through advanced software modeling tools.

The program’s goals include accelerating the adoption of advanced digital construction management systems throughout the project lifecycle for increased productivity and effective project management; facilitating more timely and productive information-sharing by reducing reliance on paper; developing and deploying best practices on construction sites; encouraging increased technology adoption and deployment by states and local governments; and enhancing transparency through real-time information sharing.

The selected state and respective budgets include:

• California DOT — $3,920,800
• Connecticut DOT — $4,497,696
• Delaware DOT — $4 million
• Illinois DOT — $4,500,000
• Iowa DOT — $1,501,200
• Minnesota DOT — $2,160,000
• Oklahoma DOT — $3,079,440
• Pennsylvania DOT — $3,910,000
• Utah DOT — $5 million
• Washington State DOT — $1,350,000

Each project aims to focus on information-sharing, reduce paper dependency, enhance productivity, and achieve cost savings during project delivery, setting precedents for the nationwide adoption and deployment of digital construction technologies.

The funded initiatives range from facilitating better data management in California to automating data collection processes in Delaware, with goals like improving safety, reducing reliance on paper, and streamlining construction operations through digital tools and technology.

Source: The Trucker

The post Millions Granted to Help Speed up Nationwide Construction Projects appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The DOT published a press release announcing the funding, as well as the program it originally stems from. The Regional Infrastructure Accelerators (RIA) program, funded by the Build America Bureau, was implemented to serve, finance, and develop infrastructure projects. They help overcome and surpass barriers for credit-worthy projects by providing funding and encouraging best practices in project planning, studies and analysis, and preliminary engineering and design.

“We are pleased to expand the Regional Infrastructure Accelerator program to 24 regions, helping communities build capacity and get much-needed transportation projects underway,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “DOT partners with these regions to help them secure financing and develop in-house expertise for innovative delivery of regionally significant projects.”

The awardees for the 2023 Regional Infrastructure Accelerator funding and their respective awarded funding are listed below.

• California DOT (Sacramento, California) — $2 million
• Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (Atlanta) — $1.75 million
• Pacific Northwest Economic Region (Seattle) — $2 million
• State of Louisiana Executive Office (Baton Rouge, Louisiana) — $2 million
• Montgomery County Department of Transportation (Rockville, Maryland) — $2 million
• Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (Las Vegas) — $2 million
• Centralina Council of Governments (Charlotte, North Carolina) — $1.75 million
• City of Tampa (Tampa, Florida) — $1.75 million
• San Diego Association of Governments* (San Diego, California) — $1.75 million
• Central Puget Sound Regional Transit Authority (Seattle) — $1.75 million
• Fresno Council of Governments* (Fresno, California) — $1.75 million
• Bay Area Rapid Transit District (San Francisco) — $1.75 million
• City of Fort Lauderdale (Fort Lauderdale, Florida) — $974,000
• County of Bernalillo (Bernalillo, New Mexico) — $974,000

Source: The Trucker

The post $24 Million in Funding Goes to the Truck Driving Industry appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.