MAG has completed a Truck Parking Study and Plan to address the lack of urban truck parking in the MAG region. Truck parking demand is high and continues to grow. While truck parking infrastructure exists in the MAG region, it is insufficient to meet both current and forecasted needs.
This study undertook:
- A data-driven assessment of truck parking needs, identifying times and areas of highest demand, as well as a review of safety challenges;
- A robust, multifaceted approach to engagement: developing surveys, a technical advisory group, and workshops to discuss all aspects of truck parking with truck drivers, member agency staff, private sector truck parking providers, and statewide and national truck parking advocacy organizations;
- The development of a suite of solutions under three categories: physical, digital, and regulatory, each with implementation actions and considerations, customized for the MAG region; and,
- Identifying willing partners in the region that can be actors and advocates for increased investment in truck parking regionally, and in their respective communities.
The study has focused in on several strategies that address not only the physical need for expanded truck parking but also satisfy a digital need for enhanced communication and real-time data availability for truck drivers entering the MAG region, while opening doors for new partnerships, pilot projects, and opportunities for member agencies to create their own solutions as they see fit. Potential implementation strategies were also identified.
Truck parking is a moving target, and as development expands to new areas, needs shift, and as freight increases in prevalence in the MAG region, funds can be invested strategically to address today’s challenges while proactively considering future needs. Through a combination of strategies, MAG is positioned to make meaningful investments in truck parking across the region.