The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has launched a new electronic system to inform truck drivers about available parking spots along I-10 in western and southeastern Arizona. The Truck Parking Availability System (TPAS) provides real-time information, helping drivers avoid parking in unauthorized areas.
TPAS is installed at the Ehrenberg and Bouse Wash rest areas, as well as the Texas Canyon and San Simon rest areas. Sensors monitor available spaces and relay the information to electronic signs and third-party platforms accessible to drivers. The data will also be available on az511.gov.
ADOT is also working to increase the total number of truck parking spaces in the state. The plan includes adding 842 new spots through the expansion of existing parking areas and the construction of new ones.
A 2020 survey by the I-10 Corridor Coalition found that 78% of truck drivers spend more than 30 minutes searching for a safe parking spot. The new TPAS system aims to address this issue and improve road safety.