In a significant move to enhance roadway safety and efficiency, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has introduced an advanced Truck Parking Availability System (TPAS) along Interstate 10. This new system provides real-time parking information for truck drivers, aiming to reduce unauthorized parking and streamline rest area utilization.
Enhancing Safety and Efficiency for Truckers
Truck drivers navigating western and southeastern Arizona now have access to real-time parking data at key rest areas along I-10. ADOT has installed the $2.8 million system at the eastbound and westbound Ehrenberg and Bouse Wash rest areas, as well as at the Texas Canyon and San Simon rest areas in southeastern Arizona. The system utilizes monitoring technology to track available parking spaces and relays this information to electronic signage and third-party applications frequently used by truckers. Additionally, these updates will be available on the Arizona Traveler Information website at az511.gov.
A Multi-State Effort for Freight and Travel Efficiency
The implementation of TPAS is part of a broader initiative spearheaded by the I-10 Corridor Coalition, which comprises Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas. This $13.7 million program is designed to facilitate safer and more efficient travel for both freight and passenger vehicles. The system currently provides truck drivers with real-time data on over 550 parking spots across the four participating states.
Expanding Truck Parking Across Arizona
ADOT’s efforts to improve truck parking extend beyond TPAS. The agency’s Statewide Truck Parking Implementation Plan has identified a need for additional parking and has proposed the creation of 842 truck parking spaces statewide. This includes:
370 new truck parking spaces funded through a $32 million investment at key locations, such as the Burnt Wells Rest Area on I-10 near Tonopah, the Meteor Crater Rest Area on I-40 near Winslow, and a new lot at I-10 and State Route 186 west of Willcox.
Expanded parking at existing rest areas, including the addition of 56 spaces at the Meteor Crater Rest Area on I-40 and 38 spaces at the Haviland Rest Area on I-40 west of Kingman since 2019.
Addressing the Parking Shortage Crisis
The shortage of safe and legal truck parking remains a nationwide issue. A 2020 poll conducted by the I-10 Corridor Coalition found that 78% of truck drivers spend more than 30 minutes searching for parking, leading many to park on highway shoulders, ramps, and other unsafe locations. This situation not only poses safety risks but also contributes to congestion and inefficiencies in freight movement.
By implementing TPAS and investing in additional parking infrastructure, Arizona is taking a proactive approach to address these challenges and support the trucking industry, which plays a vital role in the nation’s economy.
Learn More
For more details on the Truck Parking Availability System, visit azdot.gov/tpas. To explore the initiatives of the I-10 Corridor Coalition, visit i10connects.com.