The 90-mile section reopened around midday Wednesday, three months ahead of schedule, following extensive repair work by the California Department of Transportation. The reopening reconnects Carmel and Cambria along the central coast and restores direct access to Big Sur, a region that had been cut off by repeated closures.

“Today is a monumental milestone for us,” said Colin Twohig, general manager of the Big Sur River Inn. “We’re hitting the light at the end of the tunnel after three long years.”

What Led to the Long Closure

Highway 1 first shut down in January 2023 after powerful atmospheric rivers triggered a major landslide that buried the roadway in mud and rock. Additional damage followed during another wet winter the next year, including a lane collapse near Rocky Creek Bridge.

Over time, closures occurred at multiple points along the route. The final segment to reopen was a 7-mile stretch near Lucia, according to Caltrans.

During the shutdown, what was once a relatively short coastal drive became an inland detour taking as long as eight hours, significantly impacting travel, tourism, and local access.

Why the Reopening Matters for the Region

Big Sur is home to fewer than 2,000 residents and relies heavily on visitor traffic. The area is known for its steep coastal cliffs, hiking trails, and remote beaches, making Highway 1 its primary connection to the rest of the state.

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the reopening on social media, crediting Caltrans for restoring what he described as a vital economic link for the region and thanking crews for completing the work ahead of schedule.

California Assemblymember Dawn Addis, whose district includes Big Sur, said the reopening is critical for the area’s recovery.

“This turning point will help restore revenue, access to our state parks, support jobs, public safety, and economic stability for many of our residents,” Addis said in a statement.

How Caltrans Stabilized the Highway

Caltrans referred to Highway 1 as the jewel of the state highway system and used specialized equipment to complete the repairs in challenging terrain. Crews deployed remotely operated bulldozers and excavators to remove debris from unstable slopes.

To reduce the risk of future landslides, workers drilled 4,600 steel bars into the hillsides in a grid pattern to reinforce the slopes, according to the department.

Impact on Local Businesses

For businesses along the route, the closure had lasting effects. Twohig said the Big Sur River Inn experienced about a 20% drop in business during the shutdown. The timing, coming shortly after COVID-19 restrictions, compounded the challenge.

“When you have a hospitality business, you really rely on the busy season, and when there is no busy season, it can be a hard pill to swallow,” he said. “Having that lifeline back is huge.”

Twohig said the inn used the downtime to make improvements and increase marketing efforts to attract California residents during slower travel periods. With the road reopened, he expects visitor traffic to gradually return, including travelers in cars and motorhomes.

What Drivers Should Know

While Highway 1 is now fully open through Big Sur, the area remains prone to weather-related disruptions during heavy rain seasons. Drivers should continue to monitor Caltrans updates when planning coastal routes, especially during winter months.

For now, the reopening restores a long-disrupted connection along California’s central coast and brings relief to residents, businesses, and travelers who depend on the iconic highway.

Source: The Trucker

The post California Reopens Highway 1 Through Big Sur After Three Years of Landslide Repairs appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The anniversary arrives at a pivotal moment for the freight industry, as stakeholders look ahead to the expiration of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and begin preparing for the next surface transportation reauthorization. CAGTC leadership says the milestone offers both a moment of reflection and a chance to reinforce the coalition’s long-standing role in national freight conversations.

“This anniversary offers a welcome opportunity to reflect on the strength of our members, the impact of our advocacy, and the importance of a shared vision for the future of freight,” said Elaine Nessle, CAGTC executive director. “It also highlights CAGTC’s most important accomplishment of the past 25 years: giving freight a voice. As we approach the expiration of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and prepare for the next surface transportation reauthorization legislation, CAGTC looks forward to our continued engagement with Congress and the Administration to build on freight’s success in the IIJA and maximize investments in multimodal supply chain infrastructure.”

Over the past quarter-century, CAGTC has brought together public agencies, ports, private companies, and regional organizations to advocate for strategic investment in freight corridors, ports, and intermodal connections. According to the coalition, its work has helped elevate freight movement as a core component of economic competitiveness and supply chain reliability.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we are also looking forward to the policies, investments, and opportunities that will shape the future of freight infrastructure and goods movement,” said Erin Aleman, executive director of the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning and CAGTC Board Chair. “CAGTC’s role has never been more critical. We will continue our important work to ensure that freight has a strong, clear voice in national policy conversations and that our country remains prepared to meet the supply chain demands of tomorrow.”

Year-Long Anniversary Activities Planned

To recognize its 25th anniversary, CAGTC will host a year-long “Voices of Freight” Speaker Series throughout 2026. The series will feature national industry experts addressing topics such as federal freight funding programs, emerging technologies, and best practices in project planning.

In conjunction with its Annual Meeting, the coalition will also host an in-person 25th Anniversary Celebration on April 22 in Washington. The event is expected to bring together freight industry leaders from across the country to reflect on CAGTC’s history and discuss priorities for the future of freight infrastructure.

“In the past 25 years, CAGTC has helped transform how our nation understands and invests in freight infrastructure,” said Paul Anderson, president, CEO of Port Tampa Bay and CAGTC’s immediate past chair. “From the earliest days of simply seeking a seat at the table and advocating for dedicated freight programs to today’s conversations about supply chain preparedness and adapting to changing demands, CAGTC has been a constant, steady voice. It is remarkable to reflect on how far we have come – and how our Coalition’s work has strengthened the movement of goods across the country.”

25th Anniversary Sponsors

CAGTC recognized the following organizations for supporting its 25th anniversary initiatives:

• Port of Long Beach
• Majestic Realty
• Port Tampa Bay
• AECOM
• Ports America
• Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company
• Port of Los Angeles
• Intermodal Association of North America
• Port of Hueneme
• Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning
• Nossaman
• Port of San Diego
• Southern California Association of Governments

Source: The Trucker

The post CAGTC Marks 25 Years of Freight Advocacy Heading Into 2026 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“As we prepare for the next generation of fueling services, this comprehensive survey is a critical step in ensuring that upgrades reflect the real needs and expectations of both commercial and noncommercial drivers,” said Frank G. Hoare, executive director of the Thruway Authority. “We’re inviting all users to help shape the future of fueling on New York’s Main Street.”

Service Area Overview

Stretching 570 miles from New York City to Buffalo, the Thruway is one of the nation’s longest toll roads and serves as a critical route for both passenger and commercial traffic. In 2024 alone, drivers completed 8.2 billion miles on the thruway, with the Authority processing approximately 400 million transactions. More than 21.4 million travelers stopped at the 27 service areas, purchasing 58.2 million gallons of fuel.

The Thruway’s service areas are owned by the Authority and operated through concession agreements, offering fuel, restaurants, and other traveler amenities 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Past and Ongoing Upgrades

This survey builds on a significant modernization effort to improve food options, shopping, restrooms, and additional amenities at all service centers. In 2021, the Authority partnered with Empire State Thruway Partners in a $450 million public-private initiative to revamp the facilities without using tolls or tax dollars.

This year, the Thruway Authority’s budget includes $477.3 million for capital projects, an increase of $33 million from 2024. According to the Authority, this funding will address 61% of the roadway’s 2,800+ lane miles and replace or rehabilitate 20% of its 817 bridges.

Survey Focus Areas for Truckers

The Fuel Facilities Survey is designed to gather insights from drivers in about four minutes and addresses key topics, including:

• Truck parking availability
• Fuel purchase habits
• Travel patterns along the Thruway
• Electric vehicle readiness for medium- and heavy-duty EVs
• Convenience store features, payment options, preferred fuel types, sustainability initiatives, and suggestions for improvement

“The thruway is one of the safest roadways in the country, with a fatality rate far below the nationwide index, and toll rates are among the lowest in the country compared to similar toll roads. The Thruway Authority’s top priority is the safety of our employees and customers,” the agency said.

“The Thruway Authority is dedicated to providing a modern, efficient, and customer-first experience for every traveler that uses our system,” Hoare added.

Truck drivers and other users are encouraged to complete the Fuel Facilities Survey online through the Thruway Authority’s website to ensure their perspectives are included in planning the next generation of service area upgrades.

Image Source: Business Insider
Source: Transport Topics

The post Truck Drivers Invited to Weigh In on New York State Thruway Service Area Upgrades appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“This will mark the project substantially complete and on time,” stated Bob Hammond, resident engineer for WYDOT. “We may still have some seeding and reclamation, as well as a few punch-list items to complete, but this project is also pretty much wrapped up, too.”

Major Upgrades and Improvements

The reopening comes with significant infrastructure upgrades. The Snake River Bridge has been replaced with a modern four-lane structure, and the intersection of State Highways 22 and 390 has been redesigned to enhance traffic flow. Additionally, WYDOT has constructed a new pedestrian underpass and installed four wildlife crossings, fencing, and cattle guards to improve safety for both drivers and animals.

Upcoming Work on the Bridge

While the highway is open, additional work is scheduled to begin on Monday, July 7. Crews will apply a protective epoxy layer to the new bridge deck, which will temporarily reduce traffic to one lane in each direction. WYDOT advises drivers to anticipate slower speeds, lane closures, and potential delays during this phase. Weather permitting, the work is expected to be completed within a week.

“We wanted to make sure we had all the lanes open for the holiday weekend,” Hammond explained. “Once we complete the epoxy overlay, we will be pretty much finished with the work on the bridge and intersection.”

Emergency Detour and Safety Measures

In response to the mudslide in June 2024, WYDOT implemented a temporary detour after the Wyoming Transportation Commission approved an emergency bid of $430,000. The detour was designed with safety as a top priority.

“WYDOT’s engineers, geologists, and other licensed professionals with several decades of experience have done their due diligence to ensure the detour is safe for traffic,” said WYDOT Director Darin Westby in a statement last June.

Stay Updated

For the latest updates on the project, visit the WYDOT website. Current traffic conditions are also available through Wyoming 511.

Source: Land Line Media

The post Teton Pass Reopens After Year-Long Closure Due to Mudslide appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A Collaborative Effort

This research was conducted in partnership with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), which represents all 50 state Departments of Transportation, as well as those in Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.

Shayne Gill, Program Director for Multimodal Transportation at AASHTO, stated, “State DOTs strive to deliver the most safe, effective, and efficient transportation network possible; as a result, they continue to pursue a wide range of investments that enhance the nation’s multimodal freight system. Addressing truck parking needs across the country is one of those investments crucial to ensuring we maximize the benefits our highway system provides. American quality of life and economic mobility depend in large part on the quality and vibrancy of our transportation infrastructure to connect people as well as goods to their destinations safely. And adequate truck parking is key to ensuring we achieve those goals.”

The Ongoing Truck Parking Shortage

The shortage of truck parking continues to be a major concern for the industry, gaining attention from both federal and state authorities. Current estimates suggest only one truck parking space is available for every 11 truck drivers nationwide.

To better understand the situation, ATRI and AASHTO conducted a survey addressing the costs and requirements associated with creating public truck parking spaces. The research analyzed factors such as land acquisition, construction costs, maintenance budgets, and amenities offered to truck drivers. On average, public rest areas provide just 19 truck parking spaces, with Southern states offering 25 spaces per rest area and Northeastern states averaging only 15 spaces.

Insights from Case Studies

The research also includes case studies examining specific states’ innovative efforts to improve truck parking options. Key topics covered within these studies include:

• Implementation of truck parking information systems.

• Repurposing state-owned properties to create new parking spaces.

• Provisions for truck parking during severe weather conditions.

These case studies were informed by feedback from over 500 truck drivers, offering valuable insights into the effectiveness of specific measures and policies.

State-by-State Truck Parking Dashboard

Drawing on data from the survey, ATRI developed a public truck parking dashboard that evaluates each state’s current parking capacity. The dashboard also highlights the availability of amenities and safety measures at rest areas, with metrics tailored according to state size, road mileage, and proximity to major freight routes. Truck parking data from 47 participating DOTs is accessible online through ATRI’s website.

Alix Miller, CEO and president of the Florida Trucking Association, emphasized the importance of this research, saying, “ATRI’s research underscores the importance of public sector truck parking and provides multiple tools for states to evaluate their progress in meeting this critical industry need. We applaud FDOT for their commitment to expanding truck parking capacity, and our association is committed to continued collaboration to improve freight safety and mobility in the state of Florida.”

Access the Full Report

If you’re interested in deeper insights or want to explore the state-by-state truck parking assessments, the full report and dashboard are available here.

Source: The Trucker

The post ATRI Study Explores Solutions for Public Truck Parking Shortages appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The newly integrated dealerships are located in Kansas City, Missouri; Kansas City, Kansas; Quincy, Illinois; Decatur, Illinois; Mediapolis, Iowa; and Hannibal, Missouri.

“Congratulations to Nextran on their recent acquisition. We also extend our gratitude to John Sharkey, the owner of Quincy, Decatur, and H&L Mack, for the exceptional sales, service, and support they’ve provided over the years,” noted Jonathan Randall, president of Mack Trucks North America. “Nextran’s continued investments reflect their dedication to the Mack brand and its customers. This acquisition not only expands Nextran’s reach but also strengthens their commitment to delivering quality service and support to Mack customers.”

Strategic Growth for Nextran Truck Centers

Founded in 1993 by Jon W. Pritchett, who currently serves as president and CEO, Nextran Truck Centers operates full-service dealerships in key states including Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Wyoming, Illinois, and Iowa. Their locations have been strategically placed along vital transportation routes to ensure seamless support for commercial trucking operations.

With this expansion, Nextran is set to boost annual sales to approximately 5,500 new and pre-owned commercial vehicles while growing its rental and leasing fleets to nearly 1,000 units. This addition enhances Nextran’s ability to offer unmatched service solutions for its customers nationwide.

Expanding National Reach

The acquisition of Quincy Mack, Decatur Mack, and H&L Mack is part of Nextran’s ambitious growth strategy, which has led to 12 new locations in the last four years alone. Today, their infrastructure includes over 530 service bays and a skilled workforce of more than 1,400 employees.

Speaking of the acquisition, Jon W. Pritchett president and CEO of Nextran Truck Centers shared, “With the acquisition of Quincy Mack, Decatur Mack, and H&L Mack, we are not only expanding our geographic footprint but also reinforcing our commitment to growth, service and support for our customers across the U.S. Their strong family-oriented culture and dedication to superior service align perfectly with Nextran’s values. We are thrilled to welcome them into the Nextran family and look forward to a bright future together. “

Decades of Trusted Service

For over 40 years, Quincy Mack, Decatur Mack, and H&L Mack have been trusted names in the Midwest, known for their reliable service and deep-rooted customer relationships. Integrating these dealerships into Nextran’s operational network underscores the company’s mission of delivering nationwide innovation and industry-leading support to the commercial trucking sector.

Mack Trucks’ dealership network currently includes 418 locations featuring 5,268 service bays, ensuring extensive support for customers nationwide.

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Nextranusa

The post Nextran Truck Centers Strengthens Midwest Presence with Mack Dealership Acquisitions appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Ghostly Pennsylvania Turnpike

Stretching 13 miles and punctuated by three eerie, silent tunnels, the Abandoned Pennsylvania Turnpike once revolutionized cross-state transportation. When it opened in 1940, it was a groundbreaking solution for reducing driving times across Pennsylvania. But by the 1960s, outdated tunnels led to heavy traffic jams, prompting its retirement in favor of more modern routes.

Today, this stretch of road is a destination for adventurers and history lovers, standing as a haunting monument to mid-century engineering. It even draws filmmakers looking to capture its untouched and ghostly atmosphere.

Route 66: More Than a Road

Famed as the “Main Street of America,” Route 66 holds an iconic place in trucking and cultural history. First laid down as a critical freight corridor, it symbolized freedom and opportunity for many truck drivers. However, as traffic regulations and infrastructure advanced, the road was officially decommissioned in 1985, replaced by the faster and more efficient Interstate Highway System.

While Route 66 no longer serves its original purpose for long-haul trucking, parts of it have been lovingly maintained as scenic byways. Modern drivers and tourists alike flock to its retro diners, quirky roadside attractions, and kitschy motels to relive a part of America’s nostalgia-laden past.

Baltimore’s “Highway to Nowhere”

The unfinished freeway dubbed Baltimore’s “Highway to Nowhere” tells the story of a project derailed by changing urban priorities. Conceived as an extension of Interstate 70 in the 1970s, construction faced significant backlash from local communities, halting development. What remains today is a lightly used portion of US 40, a visible representation of how public opposition can shape infrastructure projects.

The Demise of the Alaskan Way Viaduct

Seattle’s Alaskan Way Viaduct once stood as a vital corridor for trucking in the Pacific Northwest, providing quick access to a dense urban area. However, safety concerns and a need for urban redevelopment pushed the city to demolish the structure in 2019. Its removal altered Seattle’s skyline and waterfront, opening doors to new infrastructure projects while highlighting the impermanence of constructed routes.

Lessons Forgotten Highways Teach Modern Truckers

Though time has moved on from these once-crucial roads, their stories have relevance today. These highways showcase the impermanence of infrastructure, reminding modern truckers that adaptability is key. Whether it’s navigating entirely new bypasses, dealing with urban redevelopment, or proactively planning around regional upgrades, truckers must evolve with the landscape of transportation.

These highways also serve as historical markers that emphasize the balance between technological advancement and logistical challenges—values that every trucker should respect as they continue the industry’s legacy.

Moving Forward by Looking Back

Abandoned highways like the Pennsylvania Turnpike, the legendary Route 66, Baltimore’s stalled freeway projects, and Seattle’s demolished viaduct are more than relics. They’re chapters of critical lessons in the advancing tale of trucking and infrastructure. These forgotten roads show how resilience and careful planning can help drivers today overcome whatever challenges lie down the road.

The post Forgotten Highways That Shaped Trucking History appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Provide your written submissions by July 21. All comments received will be posted on https://www.regulations.gov, allowing for open discussion and collaboration.

ARPA-I’s stated goal is to fund R&D efforts that have a “…clear pathway to commercialization and widespread cross-modal deployment within 5-10 years.”

According to the RFI, “ARPA–I will augment and complement existing research and development activities within DOT’s Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology and DOT’s Operating Administrations and will not supplant or duplicate those efforts.”

The purpose of responding to the RFI is to provide the Department of Transportation with information regarding potential areas to prioritize for future research and development programs, as well as the need for funding in these areas.

According to the transportation attorneys at Scopelitis Transportation Consulting, the RFI is being seen as a significant opportunity. They are particularly excited about the focus on technology and the approach of implementing it in the near future.

“The trucking and intermodal freight industries, and others, have been provided a great opportunity to think about, identify and communicate new and emerging technologies to USDOT that ARPA-I could contemplate funding to make a real difference and help keep our industry and our infrastructure globally competitive.”

ARPA-I is seeking information about the following categories:

• Advanced Construction Materials and Methods
• Digital Infrastructure
• Freight and Logistics Optimization
• Climate and Resilience
• Other Areas in Transportation Infrastructure

Advanced Construction Materials and Methods

The Department of Transportation (DOT) has long recognized the importance of advancing infrastructure and updating construction materials and methods. In fact, both the Federal Aviation Administration and the Federal Highway Administration are currently exploring options for low embodied carbon materials and innovative construction techniques to enhance our infrastructure.

One example of progress in this field is the 3-D printing of bridges, culverts, and roadways using concrete. In light of this innovation, the DOT is now seeking input on other emerging areas of construction and materials that ARPA-I should consider funding.

Digital Infrastructure

ARPA-I recognizes the rapid technological advancements in the transportation industry. These innovations encompass a wide range of areas, such as mapping, sensing, connectivity, communication, networking, and computation. Notable applications of digital infrastructure include centralized traffic management systems, driver assistance systems, GPS or GNSS applications, machine vision, and artificial intelligence.

In order to stay at the forefront of innovation, ARPA-I is requesting information about any new and emerging areas of digital infrastructure. The purpose of this request is to determine the potential benefits and reasons for funding these innovative endeavors.

Freight and Logistics Optimization

In light of the vulnerabilities exposed during the pandemic the RFI aims to gather knowledge on fresh and promising advancements in freight and logistics. The agency is keen to explore if there are any such innovations and compelling reasons for the Department of Transportation (DOT) to provide funding for them.

Climate and Resilience

Climate-related events like droughts and floods pose a threat to our transportation infrastructure. That’s why the agency is reaching out to learn about innovative technologies that can enhance its resiliency.

While the DOT Climate Change Center is already diligently working on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimizing embodied carbon in infrastructure materials, and bolstering physical and cyber resilience in the transportation system, they want to hear from citizens about other areas of climate and resilience research that should be prioritized for funding.

Other Areas in Transportation Infrastructure

The DOT is also seeking generalized input on other innovative projects that should be funded in the field of transportation infrastructure.

Source: TruckingInfo

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