COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Trucking Association (OTA) issued its approval to Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) for launching an initiative to address the critical shortage of safe, accessible truck parking across the state.
Announced Tuesday during a press conference in Warren County, the plan includes the addition of at least 1,400 new commercial truck parking spaces at 33 sites in 19 counties, positioning Ohio to lead the nation in state-maintained truck parking capacity.
“The $150 million investment, made possible through Ohio’s biennial transportation budget (HB 54), will more than double the number of truck parking spaces available on ODOT-managed properties,” the release stated.
“This initiative addresses a chronic, nationwide issue,” said Thomas A. Balzer, CAE, President and CEO of the Ohio Trucking Association. “A recent survey found that 98% of commercial drivers struggle to find safe parking, with 70% admitting to violating hours-of-service regulations in search of a spot. This puts everyone on the road at risk.
We applaud Governor DeWine’s commitment to improving driver safety and freight
mobility in Ohio.”
“As one of the nation’s key freight corridors—with trucks logging 27.5 million miles on Ohio roads in 2023 alone—the state’s trucking infrastructure is essential to both public safety and economic growth,” the release stated.
“Trucking truly is the backbone of our manufacturing-based economy,” said Governor DeWine. “We must have places for commercial drivers to rest safely.”
Jay Sewell, Chair and CEO of Sewell Motor Express, echoed these concerns.
“With 7% of truck drivers being women, this expansion is especially important in providing a secure and welcoming environment for all drivers,” Sewell added.
ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn noted that 11 of the identified sites will be fast-tracked to add 500 new spaces by the end of 2026, with full completion expected by the end of 2027. The facilities will include essential amenities such as lighting and restrooms to support driver well-being.
“The initiative builds on a series of efforts under the DeWine administration to enhance freight safety and efficiency, including real-time parking information systems, weigh station conversions, and rest area redevelopments,” the release stated.
“Ohio is setting the standard for safe, modern infrastructure that supports the hardworking drivers who keep our economy moving,” Balzer added. “We’re proud to see our state take a national leadership role on this issue.”
Bruce Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has lived in three states including Arkansas, Missouri and Georgia. During his nearly 20-year career, Bruce has served as managing editor and sports editor for numerous publications. He and his wife, Dana, who is also a journalist, are based in Carrollton, Georgia.
