Truckers got a special treat on Wednesday, September 18, in Rapid City, South Dakota, when the South Dakota Highway Patrol hosted a trucker appreciation event. The event coincided with the opening of a new inspection facility at the Tilford Port of Entry.
What's new: The state-of-the-art facility features an indoor inspection bay, allowing year-round inspections, no matter the weather. It also offers a sheltered area where truckers can wait comfortably during inspections.
- Officers served up burgers, hot dogs, and sides from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Truckers received tours of the new facility and free goodies like pens and tote bags.
Why it matters: Having an indoor inspection bay helps both truckers and inspectors work without worrying about the weather. "The big difference is this bay behind us," said inspector Brian Stenbeck. "Now we can do inspections all year-round."
The event drew truckers from across the country, reported KOTA TV News, highlighting the importance of community and recognition within the trucking industry.