Maryland's Department of Transportation has launched an $8.1 million project to expand truck parking on I-70.
What's happening: Construction commenced on September 19 at the South Mountain Welcome Center near Myersville. The aim is to provide truckers with more safe parking options.
- 25 new parking spaces will be added to the eastbound rest area.
- 10 new spaces will be added to the westbound rest area.
Currently, both rest areas have a total of 49 truck parking spaces. By the end of 2025, this project will increase that to 74 spaces.
Why it matters: According to the Maryland DOT, the South Mountain Welcome Center has the highest proportion of trucks parked for over eight hours and is often at capacity.
"America is facing an increasing shortage of truck parking, according to studies by the U.S. Department of Transportation," the Maryland DOT said in a news release.
Inadequate truck parking can lead to unsafe situations where trucks are parked on road shoulders or exit ramps, creating hazards. This sentiment is echoed by industry studies from the Federal Highway Administration.
The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, enhancing safety and convenience for truckers.