Evanston, WY — The Wyoming Department of Transportation has officially commenced a $40 million construction project to add 365 commercial truck parking spaces along the I-80 corridor near the Bear River exit. Whitaker Construction Co. Inc. is handling the site preparation and infrastructure upgrades, with total project completion slated for October 31, 2028.

Drivers running through southwest Wyoming have dealt with limited capacity for years, a persistent issue that complicates compliance with FMCSA regulations regarding mandatory rest periods. These new spots at mile marker 6 are intended to ease the burden on freight haulers who frequently struggle to find safe, legal parking after their clocks run down. The project is funded in part by a massive $265.6 million federal grant aimed specifically at bolstering truck parking infrastructure in the region.

Crews are currently working on site excavation, grading, and the installation of a temporary access road. Both the eastbound and westbound parking areas at the site are shuttered to allow for construction; they are not expected to reopen until late October 2026, just before the first major snows of the winter season hit the high plains. Beyond the parking stalls, the site will feature new lighting, updated signage, and an off-road vehicle trail to modernize the facility.

What This Means for Drivers

Any CDL-A driver moving freight through the Evanston area needs to plan for the absence of these spaces for the next two years. The ongoing shoulder work and lane closures on I-80 will likely cause localized congestion, especially during peak freight hours. Owner-operators should adjust their trip planning software now to account for the permanent closure of these specific lots, as finding an alternative spot in this corridor during the night can be difficult even without construction delays.

Industry Reaction

The expansion marks a significant win for the trucking industry, which has spent years lobbying for federal and state investment in safe parking. As trucking companies hiring new talent continue to face high turnover, providing basic infrastructure like secure, well-lit parking is essential to driver retention and safety. While two years of construction is a long wait, the addition of 365 spots provides a much-needed buffer for OTR truck driver routes that rely on the I-80 artery for transcontinental freight movement.

Key Points

• The expansion adds 365 dedicated truck parking spaces near mile marker 6.
• Parking areas are closed for construction through October 31, 2026.
• The project is part of a larger $265.6 million federal initiative to improve regional parking.
• Final project delivery is scheduled for October 31, 2028.

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