FHWA Commits $275M to Boost Safe Truck Parking Nationwide

Key Details Federal Highway Administrator Sean McMaster confirmed the Trump administration's commitment to expanding truck parking across the nation. The Transportation Department will distribute over $275 million in grants to states for parking expansion projects. As of February, 13 states have already obligated nearly $87 million in National Highway Freight Program funds toward truck parking initiatives. Why It Matters Truck drivers currently face a critical shortage of safe parking locations, often forced to rest on highway ramps, shoulders, and vacant lots. McMaster emphasized that professional drivers who move essential goods should have secure, designated places to rest. This investment directly impacts driver safety and the reliability of freight delivery across America. New Resources and Requirements The FHWA released updated grant eligibility guidance last June requiring states to integrate truck parking into their planning efforts. All states must now analyze their parking shortages and include freight investment plans in state freight plans. The agency is developing a comprehensive truck parking safety and efficiency handbook to help states evaluate parking impacts and make informed investment decisions using standardized methodologies and data resources. Next Steps The handbook will provide transportation agencies with tools to estimate truck parking impacts and guide policy decisions that improve safety and freight efficiency nationwide.