This innovative truck parking availability system aims to install digital signs across California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. These signs will display real-time data on available parking spaces at upcoming rest areas, aiding truck drivers in planning their stops more efficiently.

To address any challenges truck drivers might encounter when parking along this route, the I-10 Corridor Coalition is conducting a survey. Truck drivers and dispatchers are encouraged to share their experiences and insights regarding operations and parking conditions along I-10. Rest assured, all survey responses will be treated with strict confidentiality.

If you’re a trucker navigating the I-10 corridor, your feedback is invaluable. Take the I-10 corridor truck parking survey here.

While the new system won’t add more parking spots, it will significantly enhance the ease and safety of finding vacant ones. The American Transportation Research Institute reports that truck drivers typically lose about an hour daily searching for parking, which translates into an annual loss of $5,500 in earnings per driver.

This parking availability system will be rolled out at 37 locations along the nearly 1,700-mile I-10 stretch. This includes six spots in California, eight in Arizona, five in New Mexico, and 18 in Texas.

According to the I-10 Corridor Coalition, there are plans to further enhance this system by integrating real-time parking data into existing smartphone applications.

The concept of truck parking availability systems isn’t new. It mirrors the approach used in the Midwest, where in 2015, eight states received part of a $25 million TIGER grant to develop a regional Truck Parking Information Management System, spanning from Kansas to Ohio.

Variable message signs, or truck parking availability systems, have proven their worth. According to a survey by ATRI, 70% of truck drivers found these signs beneficial. However, the effectiveness of such systems often depends on drivers’ experience. While less than half of surveyed drivers reported acting on the information provided, those with one to five years of experience were the most likely to utilize the signs effectively.

Your insights could help shape a more efficient and driver-friendly experience along the I-10 corridor. Share your thoughts today!

Source: Land Line

The post Call for Trucker Feedback on I-10 Parking Information System appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Texas Declaration

Tropical Storm Alberto is posing a severe threat to nearly 50 counties in Texas, leading to an emergency order that will remain in effect until July 4. KIII-TV in Corpus Christi highlighted that 45 tons of debris were cleared from the Coastal Bend region within a single day. To facilitate relief efforts, the state has temporarily suspended regulations regarding the hours of service for truck drivers operating commercial vehicles across all interstates, state, and local county roads. This applies to both intrastate and interstate commerce, and drivers are not required to carry a copy of the emergency declaration with them.

New Mexico Emergency

In New Mexico, the South Fork and Salt Fires in the south-central part of the state are expected to be fully contained by July 15, reports WHDH-TV. Tragically, the fires have resulted in two deaths and the loss of hundreds of homes, with arson being suspected as the cause. The FBI has announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to those responsible. Truck drivers involved in supporting firefighting efforts in Lincoln and Otero counties are exempt from Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (Title 49, CFR, Part 395.3 and 395.5) during this emergency. The latest updates are available on the New Mexico Fire Information website.

South Dakota Flood

The South Dakota Department of Transportation has closed Interstate 29 from Exit 2 to Exit 9 as of Sunday, June 23, due to the imminent cresting of the Big Sioux River. This closure was extended to Exit 26 on Monday, June 24. According to the state DOT, there are plans to construct a berm or levee across both lanes at Exit 4 to connect with an existing levee on the east side of North Sioux City. For the most current traffic maps and updates, residents are encouraged to check online resources.

Source: Land Line

The post Severe Weather Triggers Emergency Declarations in New Mexico and Texas appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Under the Advanced Clean Trucks rule, manufacturers will be required to gradually increase the sale of zero-emission trucks from 2024 to 2035. By 2035, these vehicles must make up 55% of Class 2b-3 truck sales, 75% of Class 4-8 straight truck sales, and 40% of truck tractor sales.

The adoption of the Advanced Clean Trucks rule reinforces New Mexico’s commitment to a greener future and sets an example for other states. With this regulation in place, we can expect to see a substantial shift towards zero-emission trucks on our roads, which benefits both the environment and public health.

“These rules will speed up much-needed investment in New Mexico’s electric vehicle and clean hydrogen fueling infrastructure, create new job opportunities, and, most importantly, result in cleaner and healthier air for all New Mexicans to breathe,” Gov. Lujan Grisham said in a statement.

The Advanced Clean Trucks rule in California applies specifically to automakers and does not affect auto dealers or consumers. It should be noted that the rule does not prohibit the sale or ownership of new or used gasoline-powered trucks.

California has the unique authority to enforce emission requirements that are more stringent than federal regulations. Given the size of California’s economy, which would rank fourth globally, the regulations set by the state can have a significant impact on manufacturers as they strive to compete in the state.

While several states have adopted California’s Advanced Clean Trucks rule, they have been waiting for the federal government to grant California’s waivers.

Opposition to Advanced Clean Trucks Regulations

California’s Advanced Clean Trucks rule is receiving criticism from stakeholders in the trucking industry who believe that the state is proceeding too quickly. The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) has consistently voiced its concern, stating that while truckers support efforts to improve the environment, the technology must be dependable and affordable.

“This is another example of California approving onerous regulations that increase operating costs for truckers within the state,” said Jay Grimes, OOIDA director of federal affairs. “Whether it’s CARB emission requirements or misguided legislation like AB5, it’s no surprise we’re seeing small-business truckers and independent contractors looking for opportunities elsewhere. Vehicle reliability and affordability are top priorities for OOIDA members. We have yet to see proof that electric (commercial motor vehicles) are a realistic option for most trucking businesses considering the price tag and lack of charging infrastructure.”

Nineteen state attorneys general have joined forces to challenge California’s Advanced Clean Trucks regulation. They filed a petition for review in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit on June 5. The regulation, according to the Iowa Office of the Attorney General, will significantly increase the prices of new trucks, resulting in higher costs for businesses and consumers. Iowa is leading the lawsuit, with support from Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Indiana, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Ohio, South Carolina, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

Source: Land Line

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