Connecticut Invests $31 Million to Expand Truck Parking

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) is taking significant steps to address the critical shortage of truck parking statewide with a $31 million investment aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency for the trucking industry. This initiative will add over 180 new parking spaces across the state, providing much-needed support to truck drivers who play a vital role in keeping the economy moving.

Tackling a National Safety Concern

Truck parking shortages have been recognized as a "national safety concern" by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The Connecticut project will expand parking at five key locations: Middletown, Madison, Southington, Southbury, and Vernon. This expansion is expected to alleviate some of the challenges truck drivers face, including the dilemma of choosing between parking in unsafe locations or violating federal hours-of-service regulations.

First Phase Underway

The first phase of the project is already in motion at the Middletown rest area on Interstate 91 northbound. This phase includes the addition of 11 new parking spaces, along with upgraded drainage and stormwater management systems, at a cost of over $3 million. The Middletown expansion is scheduled for completion in September.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, we heard truckers loud and clear when they called for more places to safely park along state highways,” said Connecticut DOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “We are excited to begin these projects to improve safety for the trucking community, who keep our economy moving.”

The Broader Impact of Truck Parking Shortages

The lack of adequate truck parking has far-reaching implications. According to the American Trucking Associations (ATA), 98% of truck drivers have faced situations where they had to park in unsafe locations or risk violating hours-of-service rules. On average, truck drivers lose 56 minutes each day searching for parking, which translates to an annual loss of $5,600 in wages. Beyond the financial impact, the shortage compromises highway safety and exacerbates greenhouse gas emissions due to prolonged idling.

“The scarcity of truck parking spaces across the country decreases safety for all highway users, exacerbates the [industry’s] longstanding workforce challenges, diminishes trucking productivity, and results in unnecessary greenhouse gas emissions,” said John Blair, President of the Motor Transport Association of Connecticut.

A Growing Demand for Freight Capacity

The demand for truck parking is projected to intensify as freight volumes grow. The ATA estimates that trucks will be responsible for moving 2.4 billion more tons of freight annually over the next decade, driven largely by the continued expansion of e-commerce.

John McAvoy, Administrator for the Federal Highway Administration’s Connecticut Division, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that Connecticut’s freight transportation system already supports over 451,000 jobs and contributes $50.5 billion annually to the state’s gross regional product.

A Positive Step Forward

With this $31 million investment, Connecticut is taking a proactive approach to improving conditions for truck drivers and addressing one of the industry’s most pressing challenges. As these projects roll out, they will enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity for truckers while supporting the broader economy.