Missouri is the latest state to address truck parking, and it’s inviting the public to learn and talk about the project.
When it comes to solving the truck parking crisis, it’s really up to state and local governments. Federal dollars can get the ball rolling, but state departments of transportation must have a plan and apply for those funds.
Several states have been doing just that in recent years. Indiana plans on adding more than 1,200 truck parking spaces. Pennsylvania made the same commitment. Meanwhile, in Ohio, officials want to create at least 1,400 more spaces.
Missouri is now back in the conversation.
Truck parking along the I-70 corridor can be a challenge for truck drivers. The Missouri DOT’s Improve I-70 program aims to fix that.
Taking advantage of nearly $30 million in federal grant funds, MoDOT is working on expanding truck parking along I-70. Currently, the plan is to improve existing parking facilities in Odessa, Concordia, Boonville, Mineola and Wright City.
According to MoDOT, all of the public rest areas on I-70 and 75% of truck stops are over capacity during peak hours. This can force truck drivers to park on the shoulder or on ramps, creating a safety hazard for all motorists.
MoDOT hopes to deliver the truck parking project by the end of 2028. A lot needs to be done until then. That’s why MoDOT is holding two public information meetings. The meetings will state the need for more parking, reveal potential sites and explain the procurement schedule and process.
MoDOT I-70 truck parking information meetings:
- 27, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the gymnasium of the Concordia Community Center located at 802 S. Gordon St., Concordia, MO 64020
- 28, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the cafeteria of Wright City Middle School located at 100 Bell Rd. Wright City, MO 63390
Can’t attend in person? No problem. Anyone can review materials, ask questions or provide comments on the project’s website here. Those materials and webforms will be posted on the website soon.
Truck parking expansion is just one part of a larger effort to improve I-70 in Missouri. Lawmakers allocated nearly $3 billion to build a third lane on the interstate. An additional lane will be built in both directions, spanning nearly 200 miles from Blue Springs to Wentzville. LL
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