Washington, D.C. — The American Transportation Research Institute (ATRI) has released a report that explores strategies for expanding truck parking at public rest areas across the United States. The research, conducted in partnership with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), includes input from all 50 state Departments of Transportation, along with Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.

Truck parking shortages continue to be a major challenge for the freight industry, drawing growing concern at both the state and federal levels. Nationally, it's estimated there is only one parking space for every 11 truck drivers.

To better understand the issue, ATRI and AASHTO conducted a nationwide survey of state DOTs. The study gathered information on public truck parking inventory, land acquisition costs, construction expenses, ongoing maintenance budgets, and the types of amenities available for truck drivers. On average, U.S. rest areas have 19 truck parking spots. Regional differences are notable, with Southern states averaging 25 spaces per site, while Northeastern states average just 15.

The report includes several in-depth case studies that highlight innovative approaches to expanding truck parking. These include the use of real-time parking information systems, repurposing unused state-owned properties, and creating additional parking during severe weather events. Feedback from more than 500 truck drivers was also incorporated, offering valuable insights into what drivers need most.

Based on the survey data, ATRI developed a comprehensive public truck parking dashboard. This online tool displays each participating state’s parking capacity, amenities, and safety features, taking into account factors like road mileage, state size, and proximity to major freight routes. Data from 47 states is currently available on ATRI’s website.

Compared to other states, Pennsylvania performs below average in several key truck parking metrics:

Truck Parking Availability
Pennsylvania offers 10.9 public truck parking spaces per 100 miles of National Highway System (NHS) roadway—below the national average of 16. Despite the Northeast region having the highest regional average of 20 spaces per 100 miles, Pennsylvania’s number remains low, reflecting a need for expanded capacity.

Public vs. Private Parking Ratio
Pennsylvania is categorized as a state with opportunities for expansion, underperforming in the provision of public truck parking relative to private truck stops. The state does not meet the commonly accepted 1:4 public-to-private parking ratio. This places Pennsylvania among 37 of the 47 responding states where public truck parking is insufficient, underscoring the need for increased investment in state-supported facilities.

Construction and Maintenance Challenges
ATRI notes that many states, including Pennsylvania, face difficulties acquiring land for new truck parking or repurposing existing public spaces. Only 26% of states have acquired land for truck parking in the past decade. Nationwide, community opposition (NIMBYism) remains a significant barrier, affecting Pennsylvania as well.

Amenities and Safety
Pennsylvania’s rest areas generally provide standard amenities such as lighting and restrooms. However, 24-hour security—a top concern for drivers—is not widely available. The state also lacks the broader use of innovative amenities seen in other states, such as workout stations and free Wi-Fi, which enhance driver comfort and well-being.

Rebecca Oyler, President & CEO of the Pennsylvania Motor Truck Association (PMTA), noted that PMTA has been working with PennDOT and other partners on solutions to the truck parking crisis for several years.

Having chaired a statewide study of the issue and the adoption of a study in late 2023, Oyler continues to serve on PennDOT’s Truck Parking Task Force, which continues to work toward solutions, including an ongoing comprehensive review of state properties where additional truck parking may be considered.

In addition, PMTA is supporting legislative solutions, including a bill sponsored by Rep. Kerry Benninghoff, which would provide tax credits for private businesses offering truck parking spots as well as a review of state surplus properties that could be offered for truck parking.

Oyler emphasized how important the issues is: “Increasing both private and public truck parking spaces is a top priority for PMTA, as it directly impacts the safety of all motorists in the Commonwealth.”

PMTA continues to advocate for additional truck parking throughout Pennsylvania and supports legislation aimed at creating these necessary spaces. Expanding truck parking capacity—both private and public—will enhance safety for truck drivers and the general public alike. PMTA appreciates the ongoing efforts of Pennsylvania lawmakers dedicated to advancing this critical issue.