A Project Built Around Drivers

The effort was led by CEO Dean Ash, who said the goal was to put drivers at the center of the design.

With nearly 200 pull-through parking spaces and what Ash described as “five-star hotel-quality … showers and restrooms,” the facility was created with time and comfort in mind.

Mobile fueling is already available. Instead of lining up at traditional pumps, drivers can park and request fuel delivery. A mobile truck wash works the same way.

“We come to them to fill them up,” Ash explained. “Thirty-five gallons a minute, and they can just relax.”

Why It Was Built

The idea came after Ash heard about the challenges faced by a close friend, a veteran truck driver who lost his truck to an axle fire. While staying with Ash, the driver shared stories about the struggles of the road and how few truck stops truly offered a positive experience.

“After 25 years on the road, there are about four truck stops that I can name that I really enjoy going to,” the driver told him.

Ash, who is not a driver himself, said those conversations helped him understand the need.

“I’ve never had a CDL, never driven a truck, never even been in a truck that’s moving down the highway. But I can relate because these are people and, you know, I think too many people, at least in the industry, don’t treat truckers like a human being, like they ought to.”

Parking and Access

Parking access was a top priority.

“For the guys that are doing their short reset or their 34, they’re welcome here, and we will never have a financial requirement for them,” Ash said.

The site currently features 186 pull-through diagonal parking spaces, each with six feet of clearance on both sides. Overflow areas could push that number to 300 spots, and online reservations are free.

Located just one mile from a welcome center with only 23 spaces, Truckers Paradise has coordinated with TxDOT to redirect drivers when that lot is full.

“That’s kind of the bigger picture of where this has evolved, is that we want to work with TxDOT and even federal DOT to really take a stab at the truck parking issue,” Ash added.

Food and Amenities

The property uses the old mall’s food court for multiple restaurants. Five are already open, serving pizza, Mexican, Indian, and other meals, with room for more vendors.

Showers and restrooms were built to stand apart from standard facilities.

“With multiple jets that can massage your midsection. And it’s a marble finish,” Ash said.

Other features on the site include:

• A chrome and truck accessories store
• A cigar lounge
• Massage therapy services
• DOT physical and chiropractic care

Drivers also check in at a tiki hut entrance where staff provide a quick rundown of available services and fueling options.

What’s Ahead

Truckers Paradise isn’t stopping with what’s already open. Ash is working on:

• Expanding chrome and accessories offerings
• Adding a repair shop
• Building a 30,000-square-foot entertainment complex with batting cages, virtual golf, pickleball, pool tables, and poker.

Long-term, he aims for the model to expand nationwide across the U.S.

“The long-term goal: a frictionless environment where [truckers] just don’t have to think,” Ash said. “It’s really like a five-star resort kind of thing where things are done for them, they don’t have to think. They can just be a real person.”

Source: Overdrive

Image Source: Truckers Paradise

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Highlights of the New Travel Center

Designed to serve professional drivers and travelers alike, the facility offers a range of guest-focused amenities, including:

• 35 dedicated truck parking spaces
• 8 diesel lanes for efficient fueling
• Showers for a refreshing break on the road
• Hot and cold deli area featuring grab-and-go meal options
• Large beverage coolers stocked with a wide selection of drinks
• Four self-checkouts for fast, convenient service
• Mobile fueling and exclusive deals available through the myRewards Plus app

Whether you’re a long-haul trucker or just passing through northwest Texas, Pilot’s new Xpress Fuel location is designed to make your stop as convenient and comfortable as possible.

Source: Truckers News

The post Pilot’s New Xpress Fuel Travel Center Opens in Vinton, Texas appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Pilot Travel Center has officially opened its doors at 130 Interstate Exchange Way in Ellabell, Georgia, marking an exciting milestone for local and visiting truckers alike. The grand opening was celebrated with a lively community event featuring a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony, alongside a generous $10,000 contribution to the local Bryan County Schools.

Amenities and Services Offered

This newly established travel center is designed to provide a comprehensive range of services, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stop for all travelers. Key amenities include:

• Truck Parking: 73 dedicated truck parking spaces for long-haul drivers

• Car Parking: 62 spaces available for personal vehicles

• Diesel Lanes: 8 convenient diesel fueling stations

• Self-Checkout Services: Three automated self-checkout kiosks to expedite transactions

• Mobile Fueling Option: Fueling available through the myRewards Plus app for added convenience

• Diverse Food Selections: Offers both grab-and-go snacks and freshly prepared meals, including deli items

• Enhanced Facilities: Upgraded showers, clean restrooms, and community laundry services to meet travelers’ needs

Commitment to the Community

As part of the opening festivities, Pilot has made a significant financial pledge of $10,000 to support Bryan County Schools. This donation will bolster the elementary school’s STEM Agricultural Education curriculum and the middle school’s STEM Engineering Greenpower Electric Vehicle initiative.

Statements from Leadership

Allison Cornish, Senior Vice President of Store Modernization and Development at Pilot, articulated the company’s enthusiasm by stating, “We are excited to showcase our newly opened travel center with the Ellabell community and the travelers we serve every day. We continue to listen to our guest’s feedback and strive to make their travel experiences easier and more enjoyable.”

The Pilot Travel Center stands as a crucial resource for Ellabell residents and visitors, providing a welcoming environment for rest, relaxation, and refueling. According to the company’s press release, “Pilot is proud to serve as the newest resource for members of the Ellabell community to rest, relax, and refuel on their travel journeys and is eager to invite the community to see you out here.”

Source: The Trucker

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New TA Locations

Cowpens, South Carolina

The new TA site in Cowpens, located at 175 Truck Stop Road, offers a variety of amenities:

• Quick-Serve Restaurant: Sbarro (Opening in September)
• Convenience Store: A wide range of hot and cold beverages, snacks, and merchandise.
• Fueling Options: 6 diesel fueling positions, including Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF).
• Truck Parking: Accommodates 80 trucks.
• Private Showers: 6 showers available for drivers.
• Laundry Facilities: Convenient for extended stays.
• Driver’s Lounge: A comfortable resting area.
• Game Room: Entertainment options for travelers.
• Truck Service: Two service bays for maintenance and repairs.

Coburg, Oregon

Located at 32910 E. Pearl St., the new Coburg TA site includes:

• Full-Serve Restaurant: Coburg Crossing Café featuring an Iron Skillet menu.
• Convenience Store: Offers a selection of hot and cold beverages, snacks, and various merchandise.
• Fueling Options: 8 diesel fueling positions with DEF.
• Truck Parking: Space for 100 trucks.
• Private Showers: 8 showers for drivers.
• Laundry Facilities: Available for drivers.
• Truck Service: Three service bays for repairs.
• Truck Wash: On-site truck washing services.
• Driver’s Lounge: A comfortable area for drivers to rest.

Nevada Locations

TA Express in Henderson, Nevada

The new TA Express site at 1550 Railroad Pass Casino Road offers:

• Quick-Serve Restaurant: Capriati’s.
• Fueling Options: 7 diesel lanes with DEF.
• Truck Parking: Over 200 paved spaces.
• Reserve-It Parking: 20 reserved spots for trucks.
• Private Showers: 5 showers available.
• CAT Scale: For accurate weight checks.

Petro Travel Center in Henderson, Nevada

The Petro site located at 1700 Railroad Pass, Casino Road, features:

• Quick-Serve Restaurants: Sonic and Dunkin.
• Fueling Options: 7 diesel lanes, all equipped with DEF.
• Truck Parking: More than 100 paved spaces.
• Reserve-It Parking: 10 reserved parking spots.
• Private Showers: 5 showers for drivers.
• Laundry Facilities: Available for drivers.
• Truck Wash: On-site washing services.

With these new additions, TravelCenters of America strengthens its ability to serve travelers with top-notch facilities and services. Whether you need a meal, fuel, or a place to rest, TA’s expanded network is prepared to meet your needs.

Source: Truckers News

The post TravelCenters of America Expands Network with Four New Sites appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

This remodel is a part of Love’s Strategic Remodel Initiative, a massive $1 billion investment focused on upgrading existing locations to provide customers with a top-notch experience. During these updates, stores remain open and receive enhancements to amenities and services based on factors such as customer flow, sales, and the age of the store.

As stated by the company, over 200 Love’s locations will undergo similar upgrades in the next four years as part of this program.

The renovated Rolla location now boasts:

• 89 spacious truck parking spaces

• Seven well-maintained shower facilities

• Six diesel lanes equipped with DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid)

• McDonald’s and Subway restaurants offering delicious meals

• CAT scales for convenient weighing of trucks

• A dog park for furry travel companions

• Laundry facilities for customers to freshen up their clothes

Source: Truckers News

The post Love’s Travel Stops Unveils Remodeled Rolla, Missouri Location appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Truckers and their dogs participated in three entertaining categories: Best Dressed, Owner Look-Alike, and Best Trick. The results of this year’s competition are as follows:

Best Dressed

First place in Best Dressed was awarded to “Zippy” and Frederick Rethwisch from Tomah, Wisconsin. Their costumes, inspired by Big Enos and Little Enos from “Smokey and the Bandit,” wowed both judges and spectators.

Taking second place was “Peanut” and Ivan F. from Orlando, Florida. Peanut dazzled the crowd in a service vest, cowboy hat, and striking red “Doggles” sunglasses.

Claiming third place was “Benji” (a.k.a. “Puggles”) and Dawn Chase from New Hartford, Iowa. Puggles looked adorable in a lavender service vest and matching leash, perfectly coordinated with Chase’s purple tank top.

Owner Look-Alike

Zippy and Rethwisch impressed once again, securing first place in the Owner Look-Alike category with their matching baby blue suits and vibrant yellow scarves.

“Hank” and William Shrake from Conway, South Carolina, took second place. Hank’s black-and-tan collar, paired with Shrake’s outfit and an American flag dog tag, was a big hit with the audience.

Earning third place were “Peanut” and Ivan F., likely due to their remarkably similar facial expressions.

Best Trick

In the Best Trick category, Hank and Shrake took the top spot. Hank delighted spectators by standing on his hind legs to take a treat on command.

Benji and Chase came in second, providing humor and entertainment. Benji initially refused to lie down on command but eventually complied, drawing laughter from the audience.

Third place went to Zippy and Rethwisch, hilariously recreating their movie roles by comically bribing the judges.

For additional highlights from the Walcott Truckers Jamboree, be sure to check out the victors of this year’s Super Truck Beauty Contest and see the top performers from the Trucker Olympics.

Source: The Trucker

Image: Iowa 80 Group

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Upcoming Locations for Truck Drivers

Here’s a rundown of where these new stores will be strategically located for your convenience:

• Middletown, Virginia: Positioned at 121 Confidence Lane, this location boasts nine dedicated lanes for truck drivers and is easily accessible from Interstate 81 at exit 302.

• Asheville, North Carolina: Found at 5440 Asheville Highway, this store offers four truck-friendly lanes and is located just off Interstate 26 at exit 44.

• Warsaw, North Carolina: Located at 2543 W NC 24 Highway, this new store provides five lanes specifically for truck drivers and can be easily reached from Interstate 40 at exit 364.

• Romulus, Michigan: Marking Sheetz’s inaugural entry into Michigan, this store at 33380 Wick Road features four lanes for truck drivers and is conveniently accessible from Interstate 94 at exit 197.

Celebratory Grand Opening Events

Each store will host an exciting grand opening celebration, complete with free self-serve coffee and soda available to attendees throughout the day. Guests can engage in various activities and prize giveaways, with the main attraction being a chance to win a $2,500 Sheetz gift card, offering “Free Sheetz for a Year.” Visitors are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item, which will be donated to local nonprofits. In return, donors will receive a Sheetz-branded thermal bag, limited to one per customer.

About Sheetz

Sheetz proudly operates over 740 stores across several states, including Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, and Maryland. All locations are open 24/7, 365 days a year, ensuring customers have access to essential services at any time.

Truck drivers can check the availability of high-flow diesel fuel and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) at other Sheetz locations using the Sheetz mobile app or by visiting the Sheetz website. To find the nearest location catering to specific needs, simply filter the search for “truck diesel” and/or “Bulk DEF.”

Source: The Trucker

The post Sheetz To Open Four Brand-New Stores This August appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Started by Bill Moon of Iowa 80, the Jamboree serves as a tribute to the indispensable role that trucking and truck drivers play across North America. Attendees were treated to a host of highlights that included the Super Truck Beauty Contest, vibrant live music performances, a captivating antique truck exhibition, and displays from over 150 exhibitors and vendors. Other crowd-pleasers included a dazzling fireworks display, the spirited Trucker Olympics, and a delicious pork chop cookout.

Delia Moon Meier, senior vice president of Iowa 80 Group and daughter of the founder, reflected on the event’s historic growth. The inaugural Jamboree took place in 1979, at a time when the trucking industry was undergoing major changes due to deregulation.

“There were almost no new trucks on the road. If a new truck drove by or pulled up to the fuel islands, everyone would run outside and look at it,” she reminisced.

“My dad (founder Bill Moon) got with the local truck dealers and asked them to bring some new trucks out to display during our appreciation event,” she continued. “My dad had some antique trucks—and his friends had some antique trucks—so they showed them off. It was unique! We had new trucks and antique trucks and Iowa pork chops. And that’s how the event started.”

Entertainment was a major highlight, featuring live concerts on Thursday and Friday evenings, followed by a spectacular truck light show and fireworks. Thursday saw performances by Royale Lynn and Matt Stell, while Shane Profitt and BlackHawk took the stage on Friday. Saturday’s festivities included a performance by Dani Lynn Howe.

The 45th Jamboree also coincided with the 60th anniversary of the Iowa 80 Truckstop, established in 1964. The celebration included a special cake from Baltimore’s Charm City Cakes, which attendees enjoyed on Friday afternoon.

The next Walcott Truckers Jamboree is set for July 10-12, 2025. Mark your calendars and prepare to attend this spectacular celebration of the trucking community. Stay tuned for announcements on the winners of this year’s Super Truck Beauty Contest, Trucker’s Best Friend Pet Contest, and Trucker Olympics.

Source: The Trucker

Photo: Iowa 80 Group

The post 45th Walcott Truckers Jamboree: A Resounding Success appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

What You’ll Find Inside

Travelers can enjoy an array of fresh food and drinks, along with Love’s branded snacks. The location also features popular fast-food options, including a Hardee’s and a Subway, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

For Professional Drivers

Professional drivers are well-catered for at this new location. The facility boasts 108 truck parking spaces, providing ample room for rest and refueling. In the coming weeks, a Speedco location will also open, adding to the convenience for truck drivers. Additionally, the site includes six diesel lanes equipped with DEF, along with seven showers, laundry facilities, CAT scales, and a dog park.

In honor of the grand opening, Love’s Travel Stops is reinforcing its commitment to community support by donating a total of $5,000. This generous donation will be split between the Beaver Police Department and the Beaver Township Fire Department.

Source: Truckers News

The post Love’s Travel Stops Announces New Location in North Lima, Ohio appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The cake-cutting event will take place at 2:30 p.m. in the Super Truck Showroom during the 2024 Walcott Truckers Jamboree. This annual event, beloved by truckers and travelers alike, offers the public a chance to witness the cake and even indulge in a slice. Senior Vice President Delia Moon Meier expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “We can’t wait to see the cake next to the actual ‘Cornpatch Cadillac.’ It’s going to be so awesome.”

The Iowa 80 Truckstop, which opened its doors on June 4, 1964, started with humble beginnings—a small restaurant, store, and two diesel pumps. Today, it spans 85 developed acres, featuring over 900 truck parking spaces, ten dining options, and numerous amenities for drivers. Proudly serving America’s professional truck drivers and travelers for six decades, Iowa 80 has remained open without interruption since its inception.

Mark your calendars for the 45th Annual Walcott Truckers Jamboree, scheduled from July 11-13 at the Iowa 80 Truckstop, located at I-80 Exit 284, Walcott, Iowa. Admission and parking are free, with shuttles available from the parking area to the event grounds. For a full schedule of events, visit truckersjamboree.com.

Source: The Trucker

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