The Nation Archives

Truckers can preview parking capacity of state’s rest areas through Arizona DOT website

The Trucker News Staff - June 1, 2020

PHOENIX — Finding a truck-parking spot in Arizona just got a little easier. Truck drivers looking for places to rest can now find the total number of truck-parking spaces at any of the state’s rest areas using the Arizona Department of Transportation’s (ADOT) Arizona Traveler Information 511 website. Arizona’s 27 rest areas currently offer a total of 430 truck-parking spaces. This new feature allows commercial-vehicle drivers to see how many total spaces are available at each rest area along their routes. To find rest-area parking information, click “Map Legend” box on the right-hand side of the screen and check the box next to “Rest Areas” to bring up the rest areas on the map. Clicking on a rest area location will show details, including the total number of truck spaces. “Providing opportunities for long-haul truckers to rest is important in keeping commerce flowing in Arizona,” said John Halikowski, director of ADOT. “During this unprecedented time, truckers have been key to keeping grocery stores stocked and medical facilities supplied. Facilitating these safe locations for rest is key to ADOT’s mission.” In addition to the hundreds of truck parking spaces available at rest areas, earlier this year ADOT temporarily reopened two long-shuttered northern Arizona rest areas, Parks on I-40 west of Flagstaff and Christensen on I-17 south of Flagstaff, to provide 44 additional parking spaces during the COVID-19 crisis. Meanwhile, there are projects underway at two I-40 rest areas, Haviland and Meteor Crater, to expand truck-parking spaces by 38 at Haviland and by 60 at Meteor Crater. The project at Haviland is deemed an emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The expansion at Meteor Crater was added to an existing project to renovate the rest area. Both truck-parking expansion projects are scheduled to wrap up this summer. More help for truckers in need of parking along Interstate 10 is on the horizon. In 2019, Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas, all part of the I-10 Corridor Coalition, received a federal grant to fund development of a program that will alert commercial truck drivers to available truck parking at rest areas along I-10.

COVID-19 testing approved for commercial truck drivers in Arkansas

The Trucker News Staff - June 1, 2020

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Arkansas Trucking Association and the Arkansas Department of Health have identified 30 community-health clinics in the state where professional truck drivers can receive a COVID-19 test. The announcement was made in a statement released May 28 by the Arkansas Trucking Association. The statement noted, “As commercial truck drivers have continued to deliver hope and essential services, it is important they have confidence in their health while they pick up and deliver loads across the country and return to their homes and communities.” The participating clinics are open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; some clinics offer extended hours on certain days. Drivers are advised to call ahead and make an appointment if possible, but an appointment is not required. Drivers must present a commercial driver’s license and an insurance card and expect to wear a mask while visiting the clinic. There is no out-of-pocket expense for the test. Result times vary, but the average is two to three business days. Please note: A negative test result is a snapshot in time and only indicates that you did not have the virus at the time of the test. Drivers can still get sick and should continue to follow distancing guidelines and wash hands their often. A positive COVID-19 test means you currently have or recently had the virus. Monitor your symptoms and get medical help right away if you have trouble breathing, confusion or bluish lips or face. Drivers can be tested for COVID-19 at the clinics shown on the map below. For detailed information and links to each clinic, click here and scroll to Page 2.

Iconic Iowa 80 Truckstop added to Howes Hall of Fame inaugural class of 2020

The Trucker News Staff - June 1, 2020

NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. — Iowa 80, “The World’s Largest Truckstop,” rounds out the Howes Hall of Fame’s inaugural class of 2020, Howe’s announced today (June 1). Located in Walcott, Iowa, the iconic truck stop has been serving truckers since 1964. The truck stop is Howes’ third induction into its inaugural class of 2020. The Iowa 80 Truckstop began as a single humble building that was up and running before Interstate 80 was even completed. At the time, Iowa 80 founder Bill Moon was responsible for finding land and building truck stops for Standard Oil (now Amoco). He located the spot for Iowa 80, and the truck stop was built and opened at what is now Exit 284 off Interstate 80. A year later, Moon took over management of the facility. As the years passed and Interstate 80 was completed, hundreds — and then thousands — of truckers and travelers stopped by Iowa 80 to fuel up or grab a bite to eat. In 1984, after nearly 20 years of managing the Iowa 80, Moon and his wife, Carolyn, convinced Standard Oil to sell to them the land and buildings and officially took ownership of their beloved truck stop. Purchasing the facility gave the Moons the green light to remodel, update and expand the Iowa 80. Today, after more than 35 expansions and remodels, the truck stop houses 10 restaurant options (including the 24-hour Iowa 80 Kitchen), a dentist, a barber shop, a chiropractor, a movie theater and a workout room. There is also a giant convenience store, a custom embroidery and vinyl shop, 24 private showers, and laundry facilities. These days, the Iowa 80 is overseen by a second generation of the Moon family. The Moons’ daughter, Delia Moon Meier, is the truck stop’s senior vice president. “Iowa 80 is thrilled to receive this recognition from Howes,” Meier said. “Like Howes, we have a rich history of supporting drivers from all over. My father, Bill, loved to sit at the counter in the restaurant and talk to drivers about what would make their lives easier if Iowa 80 had it.” Back in 1978, Bill was kicking around the idea of having some sort of appreciation celebration for his customers — the truckers of America. After lots of planning and hard work, the first Walcott Truckers Jamboree was born in 1979. In 2019, attendance hit a record 44,000 attendees. “Without truck drivers doing the job they do — especially in these trying times — our economy wouldn’t function. We appreciate their hard work. Even though we have to hold our event virtually this year, we still feel strongly about celebrating America’s Truckers and are dedicated to doing so,” Meier said. Open 24/7 and offering 42 gas islands, 16 diesel lanes, a seven-bay truck service center, a three-bay Truckomat truck wash, a certified CAT Scale and a parking lot that can hold 900 trucks, Iowa 80 is a perfect addition to the Howes Hall of Fame. “It is really amazing to have reached this milestone,” Meier said. “We really appreciate the recognition from Howes, and feel so fortunate to have such wonderful, dedicated employees and loyal customers that make this possible. I’m truly honored, and my parents would have been as well.” The Iowa 80 has another offering that’s a bit unusual for a truck stop — a museum. In 2005, the Moon family opened the Iowa 80 Trucking Museum in tribute to its late founder, Bill Moon, who had long dreamed of building a museum to display the antique trucks he had collected and to show the history of American trucking. Now, Moon’s truck stop has become a building block of that history in and of itself. “At Howes, we really appreciate what it takes to keep drivers rolling. Iowa 80 does just that,” said Erika Howes, vice president of business development. “We participate in their Truckers Jamboree every year, and we see what a true oasis the truck stop is for all types of drivers. We’re extremely excited to be able to welcome the location and all of its hardworking people to our Hall of Fame.” The Howes Hall of Fame was inspired, in part, by the company’s 100th anniversary this year. The celebration of this milestone serves as a platform for Howes to thank and acknowledge all the great work that has — and still does — go on in the trucking and agricultural industries. With the goal of recognizing unique achievements across a broad spectrum of categories, the Hall will provide a showcase that will live on for generations. The Howes Hall of Fame, which officially launched on March 26, can be viewed here.

Tanker drives into crowd of protesters in Minneapolis on I-35; driver injured and arrested

Wendy Miller - May 31, 2020

MINNEAPOLIS — A tanker truck has been reported to have driven into a group of thousands of protesters on the Interstate 35 west in Minneapolis today, Sunday, May 31. The Minnesota Highway Patrol said the driver was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. TV footage from local news sources show protesters swarming the truck, and then law enforcement quickly moving in. Other TV footage showed the tanker truck moving rapidly onto the bridge and protesters appearing to part ahead of it. Video courtesy of FOX9 KMSP. Officials in Minnesota say no protesters appear to have been hit. The Minnesota State Patrol said in a tweet that the action appeared deliberate. The Minnesota Department of Public safety tweeted this message from DPS Commissioner John Harrington: “From the footage we are seeing on @MnDOT cameras, it appears the semi was on I-35W as authorities were closing the road. It didn’t appear to drive through any barricades. Driver released from the hospital and under arrest.” The Minnesota Department of Public safety initially tweeted “very disturbing actions by a truck driver on I-35W, inciting a crowd of peaceful demonstrators. The truck driver was injured & taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. He is under arrest. It doesn’t appear any protesters were hit by the truck.” The protesters were demonstrating against the death of George Floyd. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety has asked everyone to clear the area near the I-35W bridge on University and Washington avenues. People are being given the lawful order to clear the area. If that order is refused, police may use tear gas as a dispersal mechanism. [The Associated Press contributed to this report.]

Protests, riots erupt in cities across U.S.; protester allegedly dragged by truck in St. Louis

The Trucker News Staff - May 30, 2020

As riots continue in many major cities across the nation in response to the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, one encounter between a FedEx truck and a protester ended in a fatality. In St. Louis, local media outlets reported that a protester was allegedly killed as the result of being dragged by a FedEx truck as protesters attempted to loot the contents of the trailer. The accusations of looting have yet to be verified by national media as well as by The Trucker. KMOV, a Missouri CBS affiliate, reported that detectives are investigating the incident, which took place around 3 a.m. Saturday. A bystander’s video obtained by the news station is said to show a man standing between the truck’s two trailers when the truck began to move, dragging the man. The man involved in the incident was taken to the hospital, where he later died. Local media outlets report that FedEx released the following statement regarding the incident: “Our hearts go out to all those who are grieving the events of this week. We are deeply saddened to learn of a tragic situation involving a demonstrator in St. Louis and one of our vehicles. We offer our sincerest condolences to the family of the individual involved. There is no higher priority for FedEx than safety, and we are cooperating fully with the investigating authorities at this time.” According to the news station, an accident-reconstruction team is looking into the circumstances surrounding the incident as part of the investigation. The widespread riots, which include people of many races and nationalities, stem from a Friday, May 29, announcement that a Minneapolis law-enforcement officer was charged with third-degree murder and manslaughter in the death of Floyd, a black man who begged for air while the officer pressed his knee into Floyd’s neck as Floyd lay handcuffed on the ground. Several bystanders captured the incident on video, which can be viewed on various online media and social outlets. Below is a brief look at some of the other cities and states that experienced protests-turned-riots overnight. Truck drivers should remain vigilant and aware of the happenings across the country, and use caution and good judgement before entering a city where riots could be ongoing. Minneapolis In Minneapolis, the city at the heart of this incident, riots have left a scene of destruction that includes the burning of a police building on Thursday night. The city has enacted an 8 p.m. curfew; however, many protesters did not comply with the orders on Friday evening. Saturday morning (May 30), Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz announced that the U.S. National Guard has been fully mobilized for the first time in the state’s history. “At this point of time, it is nothing short of a blessing that we have not had someone killed as an innocent bystander in this,” Walz said in a news conference Saturday morning. Atlanta Protests turned destructive in Atlanta Friday evening when protesters moved from Atlanta’s downtown Centennial Park toward the CNN Center, located across the street from the park. The protests started peacefully earlier in the afternoon; but then protesters began moving toward the front of the CNN Center, where police had gathered. Over the next few hours, the crowd swelled, and SWAT teams were called in to help with crowd control. A police cruiser was set on fire, the CNN letters in front of the building were spray-painted, and protesters threw water bottles and other objects at police who were inside the front lobby of the CNN building. CNN Center is also home to a hotel and other businesses. The building is the media organization’s world headquarters. Various news reports state that demonstrators ignored police demands to disperse and that some protesters moved to the city’s major interstate thoroughfare, where they attempted to block traffic. Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms held a press conference Friday evening in which she denounced the violence of the protests and urged the citizens of the city, which has a rich history of civil-rights activism, to end the violence. She remarked, “You are disgracing the life of George Floyd and every other person who has been killed in this country. We are better than this.” Houston and Dallas Police in Texas’ two largest cities deployed pepper spray and tear gas to disperse crowds Friday night as protests escalated over the death George Floyd, who was a Houston native. Protesters blocked highway entrances and threw objects at officers after what had been a day of largely peaceful demonstrations. Some clashed with police at several locations downtown Friday evening, including one confrontation that took place near police headquarters. Organizers believe more than 3,000 people gathered with Black Lives Matter Houston to protest Floyd’s death with chants of “I can’t breathe” and “No justice, no peace,” as they marched from Discovery Green to City Hall. Some were arrested for attempting to block roads, including Interstate 68, but no injuries were reported, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said some police vehicles were damaged. A similar escalation developed in Dallas, where a rally that included hundreds of demonstrators at police headquarters escalated when protesters marched downtown to an intersection near city hall. Videos from the scene showed demonstrators being met by officers in riot gear and shields. California An officer was injured Friday after hundreds of people marched through San Jose, the capital of Silicon Valley, and temporarily shut down a five-lane section of highway to protest Floyd’s death. Vehicles were at a virtual standstill on the southbound lanes of U.S. 101 in San Jose ahead of rush hour during a pandemic that has kept many Californians home, according to video footage from KGO-TV. Protesters left the highway after an hour. Police later fired tear gas and nonlethal projectiles into the crowd, which grew to about 1,000 protesters in downtown San Jose. Officers in riot gear lined up to prevent demonstrators from further disrupting traffic near city hall, KPIX-TV reported. The station said protesters smashed the windows of police cars and threw water bottles, and several protesters were detained. One of the station’s reporters said he was struck by a hard plastic disk fired by police but was not injured. A San Jose law-enforcement officer was taken to the hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening, said Officer Gina Tepoorten, a department spokeswoman. Police officers’ union spokesman Dustin DeRollo said the officer was punched in the head by protesters and knocked unconscious, while some media reports said the officer was struck by a thrown object. Meanwhile, several hundred protesters marched peacefully down city streets in the state capital of Sacramento, gathering near a police station and shouting at dozens of police guarding the building. The activity came a day after nine people were arrested after rocks were thrown at businesses, vehicles and officers during a Southern California protest also stemming from the death of George Floyd, authorities said. Virginia Protesters in Virginia, responding to the death of George Floyd earlier this week in Minneapolis, smashed windows at police headquarters and briefly shut down a major highway on Friday. In Richmond, a Friday-evening protest that began at Monroe Park, near Virginia Commonwealth University, drew hundreds of people who marched through the streets chanting “No justice, no peace.” As the protest continued, news outlets report a that a police cruiser and a dumpster near Richmond Police headquarters were set on fire. A Richmond television reporter covering the protests was struck by a thrown bottle. Later, a city bus was set ablaze. Police responded by spraying the crowd with chemicals in an attempt to disperse the protesters. In Hampton Roads, hundreds of protesters, both white and black, marched from Fort Monroe to Interstate 64 to close the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel. They entered the highway shortly before 9 p.m. and stopped traffic in both directions, causing delays before moving on, news outlets reported. Denver Hundreds of people staged a raucous, roving protest in Denver on Friday that was generally peaceful — until night fell, when police deployed gas canisters and fired pellet guns for a second straight night to disperse crowds gathered in response to Floyd’s death and the circumstances surrounding it. Mayor Michael Hancock and protest organizers called for calm and unity for the rallies that began midday in downtown Denver. But as evening came, the situation devolved. Some protesters lobbed water bottles and other objects at officers, according to KUSA-TV. They then scattered and retreated onto the capitol lawn as police retaliated and tear gas filled the street. Earlier in the day, protesters chanted “George Floyd” and “No justice, no peace” as they marched from the capitol to the Denver City and County Building. They proceeded along downtown Denver’s pedestrian mall and back to streets near the capitol, where ground-floor windows were boarded up. Passing motorists honked their support as the protest continued, more than six hours after it started. Police detained at least three people — the reasons were not immediately known — and erected protective fencing around police headquarters as a precaution. “Let not the story be about the riots and protests. Let’s keep the focus on the life that was lost,” Hancock declared after Thursday’s violence. “I can tell you not to go out and demonstrate. But the reality is, it’s going to happen,” Hancock said, stressing that he shared outrage over what he has called the “senseless and tragic murder” of Floyd. Hancock, along with Police Chief Paul Pazen, blamed what they called a minority of agitators among peaceful protesters for inciting violence throughout downtown on Thursday. Three officers were injured and 13 people were arrested for burglary, criminal mischief and assault Thursday, Pazen said. On Thursday, when hundreds gathered outside the state capitol, some protesters broke windows and spray-painted graffiti on the building, and a state patrol car and a lawmaker’s truck were heavily damaged. In other areas, police in riot gear fired gas canisters, used rubber bullets and walked in a phalanx through the streets. The protest briefly spilled onto Interstate 25, until police used tear gas to disperse the crowd. Police were investigating who fired shots outside the state capitol, sending people running, Pazen said. It was unclear if protesters were being targeted, and no one was arrested, police spokesman Kurt Barnes added. Officers also were investigating numerous other incidents, including one in which a motorist appeared to intentionally strike a protester, Pazen said. Both the mayor and police chief said they supported continued peaceful protests going forward. A large protest has been called for Saturday. [The Associated Press contributed to this report.]

USDOT to distribute more than 15 million cloth facial coverings to U.S. transportation workforce

The Trucker News Staff - May 29, 2020

WASHINGTON ― The Trump administration announced on May 28 that millions of cloth facial coverings will be sent to workers in critical sectors of the nation’s economy. About 15.5 million facial coverings will be distributed among the U.S. transportation workforce. The U.S. Department of Transportation, along with the Department of Homeland Security, has been working with states, industries and stakeholders to ensure that transportation workers receive the support they need. The cloth facial coverings secured by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will be sent out over the coming weeks through the U.S. Postal Service. The DOT’s has allocated the following masks to be distributed: Mass Transit and Passenger Rail: 4.8 million Aviation: 3.8 million Maritime: 2.4 million Freight Rail: 2.2 million Highway and Motor Carrier: 2.1 million Pipeline Systems: 258,000 “Transportation workers are on the front lines of keeping our transportation systems operational during this public health emergency, and their well-being and safety is paramount,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao.

Arizona DOT announces weekend interstate closures

The Trucker News Staff - May 29, 2020

PHOENIX — The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has issued advisories for drivers on Interstate 17 in Phoenix and on Loop 101 (Price Freeway) in Chandler, Tempe and Mesa in the coming days. INTERSTATE 17 Portions of I-17 will be closed from 10 p.m. Friday, May 29, until 5 a.m. Monday, June 1, as work continues on replacement of the bridge at Central Avenue. Southbound I-17 at Seventh Avenue will be closed for a traffic shift to the northbound side of the interstate. The following ramp closures will be in effect: Southbound I-17 on-ramps at Seventh and 19th avenues. Southbound I-17 on-ramp at Grant Street. Eastbound and westbound I-10 ramps to southbound I-17 at the I-10/I-17 “Stack” interchange. Southbound I-17 detour: Drivers should use eastbound I-10 between the 1-10/1-17 “Stack” interchange and the 1-17 “Split” near 24th Street. Northbound I-17 between the westbound I-10 “Split” near 24th Street and Seventh Avenue will also be closed in order to shift southbound traffic to the northbound side of the interstate. The following ramp closures will be in effect: Eastbound I-10 interchange on-ramp to northbound I-17 at the “Split” near 24th Street. Westbound I-10 off-ramp at 24th street. Northbound I-17 on-ramps at 16th and Seventh streets. Northbound I-17 detour: Drivers should use westbound I-10 between the I-17 “Split” near 24th Street and the I-10/I-17 “Stack” interchange. After completion of the shift, I-17 traffic will run on the northbound half of the I-17 bridge at Central Avenue, with two travel lanes in each direction. This shift is anticipated to remain in place until early 2021, when traffic will be switched to the southbound side of I-17 for reconstruction of the northbound side of the bridge. LOOP 101 (PRICE FREEWAY) Drivers on the Loop 101 (Price Freeway) in Chandler, Tempe and Mesa should prepare to slow down and use caution around construction personnel and equipment while the following restrictions are in place to facilitate an improvement project. The southbound Price Freeway will be closed between Elliot Road and Loop 202 (Santan Freeway) from 9 p.m. Friday, May 29, until 5 a.m. Monday, June 1. Detour: Southbound Price Freeway travelers can use the Price frontage road. Drivers who need to travel eastbound on the Santan Freeway can access it using southbound Dobson Road. Drivers can access the westbound Santan Freeway from southbound McClintock Drive. The southbound Price Freeway will be closed between Warner Road and the Santan Freeway from 9 p.m. Friday, June 5, until 5 a.m. Monday, June 8. Detour: Southbound Price Freeway travelers can use the Price frontage road. Drivers who wish to travel eastbound on the Santan Freeway can access it by using southbound Dobson Road. Drivers can access the westbound Santan Freeway from southbound McClintock Drive. Drivers should also be aware of these ramp closures: Northbound Price Freeway on-ramp at Elliot Road: Closed from 4 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 30. Northbound Price Freeway off-ramp at Ray Road: Closed from 4 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 30. Southbound Price Freeway on-ramp at Warner Road and off-ramp at Ray Road: Closed continuously from 5 a.m. Monday, June 1, until 9 p.m. Friday, June 5. Southbound Price Freeway on-ramp at Ray Road and off-ramp at Chandler Boulevard: Closed from 9 p.m. Thursday, June 4, until 5 a.m. Friday, June 5. Closures of consecutive ramps will not be scheduled at the same time. In addition, the southbound Price Freeway will be narrowed to two lanes nightly between Warner Road and Chandler Boulevard from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. beginning Tuesday, June 2, and continuing through the morning of Friday, June 5. For more information about ADOT’s Loop 101 project, click here.

Trucking through COVID-19: CAT Scale embraces ‘no contact’ even before COVID-19 crisis

Wendy Miller - May 29, 2020

Drivers do not like to waste time. With the implementation of the electronic logging device (ELD) mandate, drivers’ time is more closely scrutinized — and more valuable — than ever. Therefore, anything that can save time for the driver is a big plus. This, coupled with the COVID-19 pandemic that has taken hold of the United States, makes staying inside the cab of the truck even more essential. CAT Scale was embracing a contactless alternative to weighing a loaded truck even before the threat of COVID-19 limited interaction with other people for everyone. With the Weigh My Truck app, there is no need for interaction. Everything can be done from one location on the driver’s mobile device. This not only makes a driver’s life easier; it also helps to keep them in line with social-distancing standards set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CAT Scale’s smartphone app — Weigh My Truck — allows drivers to weigh and pay from their smartphone or tablet without ever having to leave their truck. Drivers can easily access the app by visiting www.weighmytruck.com to set up an account. A fleet can also set up an account for all its drivers and trucks. Once the account is set up, the driver downloads the free app from their app store. When it’s time to weigh, the driver drives the truck onto the CAT scale, opens the app, confirms the CAT Scale location and the truck identification information displayed on the smartphone or tablet screen, payment is processed, and the driver sees their weights immediately. A PDF copy of the printed scale ticket is then emailed to the driver within minutes. This technology eliminates the traditional process of utilizing a printed ticket to properly be weighed, and the weights are still guaranteed. The CAT Scale app can get drivers on the road quickly, and even more importantly, it can keep them safe in these uncertain times.

Free lunch for MTAC member truckers provided at Wallingford, Connecticut, rest area May 29

The Trucker News Staff - May 29, 2020

WALLINGFORD, Conn. — Drivers from Motor Transport Association of Connecticut (MTAC) companies will be treated to a free lunch at the Wallingford rest area on southbound Interstate 91 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. eastern time today (Friday, May 29). Meals will be purchased from Chris and Roy’s food truck or other food trucks present at the rest area. Drivers from MTAC member companies who are in the area during their workday are encouraged to stop by. The event, the fourth of its kind, is hosted by MTAC and sponsored by Coastal Carriers of Connecticut. John Pruchnicki, who is a member of MTAC’s board of directors, and a past chairman of the board for the association, is a co-owner of Coastal Carriers of Connecticut. “I appreciate Coastal Carriers volunteering to host another food truck event where they will buy meals for commercial truck drivers,” said MTAC President Joe Sculley. “They, like our previous food-truck event sponsors, want to show appreciation for truck drivers who have been working on the front lines in direct response to the pandemic.” The May 29 food-truck event in Wallingford follows other successful food-truck events held by MTAC and its members. Whelen Engineering sponsored an event on May 6 in North Stonington, Connecticut; Berkshire Energy Depot sponsored an event on May 15 in Wallingford, Connecticut; and Nutmeg International Trucks and Allegiance Truck Group sponsored an event on May 20 in Southington, Connecticut.

Trucking through COVID-19: As pandemic causes cancellations, Howes takes Hall of Fame inductions online

Wendy Miller - May 29, 2020

NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. — Howes turns 100 years old this year and to celebrate, the company has launched the Howes Hall of Fame. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, large gatherings were canceled in mid-March, including the Mid-America Trucking Show, which is where the company had originally planned to unveil its nominees. That did not stop Howes, as the company carried on with its mission of honoring people, places and things that have contributed significantly to the industry. “The Howes Hall of Fame is meant to recognize the individual pieces that make up these great industries as a whole, knowing full well that we wouldn’t have reached our centennial milestone without them,” stated President Rob Howes. “A big part of our 100 Year Celebration is to say ‘thank you.’ This seemed like the perfect kickoff opportunity to do just that.” It is the intent of Howes that this platform serve as a vehicle to raise awareness of the inductees and all of their accomplishments. That is evident right away with the first inductee, Women In Trucking’s CEO and president, Ellen Voie. Voie has dedicated her life to advancing women in the industry and promoting their inclusion behind the wheel and on the road. Her contributions to trucking have been astounding, and Howes was excited to showcase her hard work. “I am so honored to be the first inductee into the Howes Hall of Fame,” Voie said. “It’s really surreal to think that they are recognizing me and others for our contributions to the trucking industry. Just watching the video online takes my breath away.” The second inductee into the Howes Hall of Fame has contributed not only to the trucking industry, but also to the music industry. Tony Justice has sold over 100,000 albums in the past nine years, all while averaging 2,500 miles per week as a professional truck driver. “I’m the most blessed guy in the world. I get to live two childhood dreams,” Tony said. “I get to drive trucks and make music.” Justice continued, “The thought that so many people are supporting my music and my dreams. I’d like to thank Howes for welcoming me into the Hall of Fame. As a 100-year-old, family-owned American company, it’s a real honor to be recognized by them.” Howes will continue to announce its inaugural class of inductees online but will look to have formal in-person recognitions of its members once the COVID-19 pandemic is over. For more information and to view the videos of the current inductees, click here.

Hour-long police chase, shootout ends in death of Virginia truck driver Wednesday night

Linda Garner-Bunch - May 28, 2020

GENESEO, N.Y. — A suspect identified as Joshua Blessed, aka Sergei Jourev, a 58-year-old truck driver for Yurman Express LLC of Harrisonburg, Virginia, led New York law-enforcement officials on a chase that spanned three counties and lasted more than an hour. The chase ended when Blessed was fatally shot. It is not yet known whether the gunshot that killed Blessed was self-inflicted or was fired by law enforcement. During the incident, the suspect allegedly rammed police cars, attempted to strike oncoming vehicles and repeatedly fired at police officers and vehicles. In a press conference Thursday afternoon (May 28), Livingston County Sheriff Tom Dougherty described the event as “a stressful, intense incident” and provided a preliminary timeline of the events. The chase began about 8:37 p.m. Wednesday, May 27, in LeRoy, New York, when police officers pulled over a tractor-trailer for a speeding violation, and ended more than an hour later at 9:58 p.m. in Geneseo, New York, according to Dougherty. LeRoy Police Chief Chris Hayward said the suspect refused to interact with officers at the time of the initial traffic stop, refusing to roll down the truck window or provide requested documentation, such as his driver’s license, registration and insurance information. While the officers were attempting to verify the truck’s license plates, Hayward said, Blessed drove away from the scene with an officer still standing on the truck’s side rail. The officer was unharmed; however, the suspect rammed two police vehicles at the scene, Hayward said. Shortly after 9 p.m., the truck entered Livingston County after driving through a set of stop sticks set by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department and then drove through a second set of stop sticks placed by the Livingston County Sheriff’s Department. Dougherty’s team then joined the pursuit. During the chase, the driver’s speed varied from high to “really slow,” with the suspect occasionally stopping, Dougherty said. During the chase, the truck made multiple U-turns, doubling back on its route, and “aggressively” taking curves, “with the operator having no regard for human life,” he continued. The chase ended when the tractor-trailer veered off Route 20A and into a field in Geneseo; the suspect was declared dead at the scene. Dougherty said the body had multiple gunshot wounds and that the medical examiner’s office is working to determine whether the fatal shot was self-inflicted. Officers reported that a handgun was on Blessed at the scene and that investigators are searching the truck for additional evidence. “He fired a lot of shots and we fired a lot of shots,” Dougherty said. “He fired a lot of shots throughout the pursuit and we fired a lot of shots at the conclusion.” During the chase, four law-enforcement vehicles were struck by gunfire. One vehicle was hit 10 times. A bullet went through the windshield of another vehicle, passing over the headrest and lodging in the glass between the front and back seats, according to Dougherty. “I believe if he wasn’t ducking, then (the bullet) would have been right to (the officer’s) head,” he said. “I can’t put into words what the incident was like. ‘Challenging’ is an understatement,’” he continued. “You have a heavy, heavy vehicle with a man who wants to do carnage. He’s actively trying to kill our deputies and he’s got a big vehicle to move around that’s nearly impossible to stop, aside from having a tank.” Other than the suspect, no injuries were reported among law-enforcement officers and civilian bystanders, Dougherty said. “I would call it a miracle, I honestly would. God’s blessing,” he said. “I have no clue how nobody was hurt —so many shots at law enforcement, the size of his vehicle, his driving, the civilians around.” Dougherty expressed gratitude to the law-enforcement agencies involved in the chase, which included the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, the LeRoy Police Department, the Geneseo Police Department and the New York State Police, as well as area fire departments, EMS teams, the district attorney’s office and others. Officials say they do not yet have a motive for Blessed’s actions in allegedly fleeing what should have been a routine traffic stop and attempting to injure law-enforcement officers. Dougherty said there are many questions to be answered. “What was the last 24 hours of his life like? Why today? We’re trying to get those answers,” he said. The owner of Yurman Trucking spoke to 13WHAM News, an ABC affiliate in Rochester, New York, Wednesday night, saying that the driver was on his way to pick up dairy products in Batavia, New York, adding that he lost contact with Blessed and was not sure what happened.

Portion of I-75 in Detroit to close this weekend for bridge demolition

The Trucker News Staff - May 28, 2020

DETROIT ― Both directions of Interstate 75 between Interstate 94 and Michigan Highway 8 (Davison Freeway) will be closed from 9 p.m. Friday, May 29 until 5 a.m. Monday, June 1, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). During the planned interstate closure, MDOT contract crews will be removing the existing Milwaukee Street overpass in preparation for the replacement of the structure. Due to its current structural condition, the bridge is being replaced in advance of other major improvements on the future Interstate I-94 modernization project in Detroit. During the closure, the posted detour for northbound I-75 follows westbound I-94, northbound M-10 (Lodge Freeway) and eastbound M-8 back to northbound I-75. Southbound I-75 traffic will use westbound M-8 to southbound M-10, back to southbound I-75. The following ramps will close starting at 7 p.m. on Friday: Eastbound and westbound M-8 to southbound I-75; Holbrook Avenue to southbound I-75; Clay Street to southbound I-75; Eastbound and westbound I-94 to northbound I-75; and Warren Avenue to northbound I-75. All ramps, except Holbrook Avenue to southbound I-75, will reopen by 5 a.m. on Monday, June 1. In addition, crews will close the left lane on southbound I-75 from Clay Street to Piquette Avenue starting at 9 a.m. Friday to mobilize demolition equipment. For information about MDOT’s I-94 modernization project, click here.

New Jersey Turnpike announces rate hike to fund $24 billion construction project

The Associated Press - May 28, 2020

TRENTON, N.J. — The New Jersey Turnpike Authority voted Wednesday (May 27) to increase tolls on two of the state’s major highways and approve a $24 billion construction plan that the hike will fund. The board’s 7-0 vote came despite pleas from many people to delay the vote, saying. They said the agency should not have gone ahead with the hearing process while residents are dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. The construction plan includes $16 billion to widen sections of the New Jersey Turnpike and the Garden State Parkway, permanently implement cashless toll payment and replace a bridge between New Jersey and Pennsylvania. State Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg, a Democrat from Bergen County, specifically asked the board to “hit the pause button” on the highway- widening plans, saying officials should wait to see what happens with travel patterns once the pandemic eases. Tolls will increase Sept. 13 on the two main toll roads. The authority said tolls will rise by 36% on the New Jersey Turnpike, meaning the average trip that now costs $3.50 will rise to $4.80. Tolls on the Garden State Parkway will rise by 27%, meaning the average trip that now costs $1.11 will increase by 30 cents.

Texas SH 130 offers half price overnight truck tolls in June

The Trucker News Staff - May 28, 2020

AUSTIN, Texas — SH 130 Concession Co. LLC is offering half off overnight commercial truck tolls in June for travel on the southern 41 miles of Texas State Highway 130, which the company operates and maintains. The State Highway 130 Freight Rebate Recovery Program applies to commercial trucks traveling between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m. on the southern segments of the toll road between San Antonio and Mustang Ridge, just south of Austin. To receive the discount, commercial truck drivers or companies must enroll in the program either through SH 130 directly or by contacting their Bestpass or PrePass account managers. Traveling the full 41-mile length of Texas State Highway 130 south will result in a rebate between $11.22 and $18.70, depending on the size and shape of the truck. Commercial trucks are defined as Class C and larger. Vehicle class and toll rate information is available at on the SH 130 website. “Overnight trucking is a hard job in the best of times, and we know that it’s been an especially tough few months for everyone in the freight industry,” said Tyler Duvall, CEO of SH 130 Concession Company. “We hope that this program helps drivers and freight companies recover faster and demonstrates our appreciation for this critical industry. We also hope that the industry gets to experience the significant reliability benefits that SH 130 offers relative to other route options.”

What’s the buzz? Bee infestation causes shutdown of Nevada rest area

The Trucker News Staff - May 28, 2020

SEARCHLIGHT, Nev. ― Hundreds of bees were discovered swarming the faucets, toilets and other facilities at the Southern Nevada Visitor’s Center rest area along U.S. 95 on Wednesday (May 27), causing a shutdown of the facility until further notice. The rest area is located about 17 miles south of Searchlight, Nevada, in Clark County. Maintenance crews discovered the infestation while performing a fog-seal pavement upgrade to the rest area’s north and south parking lots. “NDOT crews are working diligently to quickly resolve this issue,” said NDOT spokesman Tony Illia. “It’s important to make this rest area safe and accessible once again for motorists.” The rest area will remain closed until it can be safely reopened again. For complete list of Nevada’s state-maintained rest areas, click here.

Semi stuck in Virginia tunnel halts traffic

The Trucker News Staff - May 27, 2020

NORFOLK, Va. ― Traffic at the westbound entrance of Norfolk’s downtown tunnel, which links Norfolk to Portsmouth, Virginia, was halted Tuesday morning, May 26, after a tractor-trailer rig scraped the top of the tube and became wedged. The incident caused multiple passenger-vehicle crashes, and three people were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, according to a report on FOX2NOW.

Convoy, Dairy MAX team up to deliver milk to food banks across the Southwest

The Trucker News Staff - May 27, 2020

DALLAS ― Convoy, a digital freight network, and Dairy MAX, a nonprofit dairy council that represents 900 dairy farm families, have teamed up to help families in need by coordinating milk donations from local dairy processors to be delivered to mass food-bank distribution sites across the Southwest. As of May 20, more than 13,000 gallons of Borden Dairy milk had been delivered in Texas alone. COVID-19 has put a strain on families across the nation, and food banks have reported that milk and other dairy products are among the most requested items. As organizations such as Feeding America have mobilized to service the unprecedented number of people now relying on food pantries to feed their families, Dairy MAX sought out new avenues to ensure food banks are stocked with enough dairy products to put milk in the hands of every family in need. To quickly move products from dairy processors to food banks, Dairy MAX reached out to Convoy. Leveraging both organizations’ strengths — Dairy MAX’s partnerships with dairy processors and Convoy’s vast shipping network — the organizations have streamlined the delivery of milk to food banks that set up mass distribution sites, serving thousands of people in a single day. “We heard about Convoy’s efforts delivering donations across the U.S. to food banks and immediately thought of them as a partner that could help us provide dairy to families in need. We were impressed with how quickly Convoy was able to step in and seamlessly pick up the milk donated by Borden Dairy in Dallas and deliver it to the mobile food distribution site that day,” said Mike Konkle, CEO of Dairy MAX. “We decided we were ready to expand our partnership when we saw how efficiently our organizations worked together, and we knew we could make a difference on a much broader scale to support other food banks in our region.” The partnership will continue to expand to more mass distribution sites, with Dairy MAX connecting local dairy processors participating in USDA milk-donation programs with Feeding America food banks across the nine-state Dairy MAX geographic territory, which includes Texas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Colorado and others. Many of these distribution sites are substantial, feeding up to 10,000 people daily. Jennifer Wong, head of sustainability for Convoy, added that, “In times of hardship, it’s important that we come together as a community,” said Jennifer Wong head of sustainability for Convoy. “We are excited to partner with Dairy MAX and are fortunate that our strength driving efficiency in the supply chain meshed with their ongoing efforts to ensure families have the milk and dairy products they need. We experienced firsthand how good they are at what they do and look forward to scaling our collaboration to support more locations.” Convoy’s vital aid program covers transportation of food, medical supplies, clothing and cleaning supplies to any donation facility in need. This effort leverages the scale and reliability of Convoy’s core business, moving millions of truckloads of goods across the country for businesses of all sizes. Businesses can email [email protected] to coordinate a donation.

TravelCenters of America to open Petro Stopping Center in Monteagle, Tennessee

The Trucker News Staff - May 27, 2020

WESTLAKE, Ohio — TravelCenters of America Inc. has announced that it signed a franchise agreement to open a Petro Stopping Center in Monteagle, Tennessee. Operated by new franchisees Brian Graber, Tammy Graber and Rodney Kilgore, the new travel center will be positioned on 21 acres off Interstate 24 at Exit 135. The center is expected to open in the first quarter of 2021. The opening of the Petro Monteagle will add more than 300 truck parking spaces and bring 130 new jobs to the area. Restaurants planned for the travel center include Papa John’s, Bojangles’ and Betty’s Kitchen. Other amenities are expected to include a barber shop, a fitness center, a driver’s lounge, laundry facilities and a pet wash. “Our franchise team has been working hard to expand our presence across the country,” said Dave Raco, vice president of franchise operations. “We’re confident that the vast business experience of our new franchisees will bring the exceptional experience professional drivers have come to trust at our locations.” “We’re pleased to franchise with such a highly-regarded brand in the travel center industry. Having built and developed businesses in Marion County for more than 20 years, we are personally and professionally invested in the people passing through and the residents who call it home,” Kilgore said. “We’re proud to bring hundreds of jobs to the area and provide an oasis for all the hardworking commercial drivers who provide for all of us by transporting essential items to everyone in the nation,” said Brian Graber. “We look forward to our new business endeavor and serving the community of Monteagle, and the traveling public,” added Tammy Graber. TA recently announced the acceleration of its network expansion strategy by actively pursuing franchising opportunities for business growth. The Petro Monteagle will be TA’s 11th travel center to open in Tennessee.

Minnesota’s I-35 Albert Lea rest area temporarily closed for repair

The Trucker News Staff - May 26, 2020

ALBERT LEA, Minn. — The northbound Interstate 35 Albert Lea rest area is temporarily closed because of a water pump failure, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT). Crews are working to fix the issue and the rest area facility will reopen when it’s complete. MnDOT will announce when the work is complete and the rest area reopens. The rest area is at mile marker 1 just north of the Iowa border near Albert Lea. The next rest area on northbound I-35 is the Straight River Rest area at mile marker 35 just south of Owatonna. To find a rest area in Minnesota, use the state DOT’s website search tool at www.mndot.gov/restareas to learn about services and access at each site.

No cash payments accepted at Michigan’s international Blue Water Bridge through June 21

The Trucker News Staff - May 22, 2020

PORT HURON, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) announced on May 21 that no cash payments will be accepted for any vehicles conducting essential travel via the eastbound Blue Water Bridge that links Port Huron and Point Edward, Ontario, Canada. The policy complies with recommendations by Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services designed to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. All commercial traffic will need to pay by prepaid commuter account cards or debit/credit forms of payment. MDOT encourages any commercial travelers who wish to apply for the prepaid commercial account to visit www.federalbridge.ca and complete the application. On March 18, the Federal Bridge Corporation Limited (FBCL) and the MDOT Blue Water Bridge operations suspended all private passenger vehicle cash transactions for westbound bridge crossings. To reduce the spread of COVID-19, MDOT added further restrictions on forms of payment, and has not accepted cash payments for any toll crossing since March 26. Reducing person-to-person contact via cash exchange will help to reduce exposure to contagion. In accordance with orders from the United States and Canadian federal authorities, temporary travel restrictions on all land ports of entry and ferries between the U.S. and Canada are expected to remain in effect through June 21. Border protection agencies from both the U.S. and Canada are committed to supporting safe travel for essential customers and commercial truck traffic. The agencies and bridge administrations will follow all federal guidelines intended to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. At this time U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) have suspended normal operations at U.S.-Canada land ports of entry and are only processing travelers engaged in essential travel. The trade of legitimate goods has not been interrupted. According to the CBP, some cases of essential travel include: S. citizens and lawful permanent residents returning to the U.S. Those traveling for medical purposes. Individuals traveling to attend educational institutions. Individuals traveling to work in the U.S. (including those working in the farming or agriculture industries who must travel between the U.S. and Canada for work). Those traveling for emergency response and public health purposes. Individuals engaged in lawful cross-border trade (such as truck drivers supporting the movement of cargo between the U.S. and Canada). Individuals engaged in official government travel or diplomatic travel. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces, their spouses or children returning to the U.S. Individuals engaged in military-related travel or operations. Individuals traveling for tourism purposes such as sightseeing, recreation, gambling, or attending cultural events are not considered essential travelers.