MDOT Breaks Ground on Project Adding More Truck Parking Along I-70 in Maryland

Maryland Expands Truck Parking on I-70 to Support Truckers and Supply Chain

The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is working on a new project to expand truck parking at the South Mountain Welcome Center. This rest area is located on Interstate 70 in Frederick County. The expansion will help truckers by adding more parking spaces and will also benefit Maryland’s economy and supply chain.

MDOT Aims to be One Step Closer to Solving the Truck Parking Problem

There is a shortage of truck parking across the country. The U.S. Department of Transportation has reported this problem, noting that there are not enough safe and accessible parking spaces for large trucks. This shortage forces drivers to park in unsafe areas or to drive longer than allowed, which can lead to dangerous situations.

In 2020, MDOT SHA reviewed its truck parking areas across Maryland. The review showed that the South Mountain Welcome Center is one of the busiest locations for truckers. The parking area often reaches full capacity, and many trucks park there for more than eight hours. This new project will increase parking space by more than 50%, helping to relieve this pressure.

Details of the MDOT Parking Expansion

The project is expected to cost $8.1 million and will add 25 new parking spaces. These include 15 spaces at the eastbound rest area and 10 spaces at the westbound area. The new spaces will include several parallel parking spots to fit more trucks.

Currently, the rest areas on I-70 have 49 parking spaces combined. When the expansion is complete, there will be a total of 74 spaces. This increase will provide much-needed parking for truck drivers, making it easier for them to find a safe place to park. The project is set to be finished by the end of 2025.

Helping Maryland’s Economy and Supply Chain

This expansion is important for Maryland’s economy. The trucking industry is key to the movement of goods throughout the state and the country. When truck drivers can rest safely, they can follow legal hours of service rules and stay alert on the road. This helps ensure that goods are delivered on time, supporting businesses and communities.

The South Mountain Welcome Center is located in a busy trucking area along I-70. By increasing parking spaces, Maryland is helping truckers do their jobs more efficiently and safely. This project will also reduce the risk of trucks parking in unsafe or unauthorized spots, which can cause problems for both truckers and other drivers.

Safety During Construction

MDOT SHA wants to remind all drivers to be extra careful in work zones. Drivers passing through the construction area near the South Mountain Welcome Center should stay alert, follow the speed limit, and watch for changing traffic patterns. Maryland law requires drivers to slow down and move over when passing work zones. This is important for keeping both workers and drivers safe during the construction.

MDOT SHA is committed to keeping traffic moving smoothly and safely while the project is being completed. Drivers should remain focused when passing through the area to help prevent accidents.