Truckers passing through Salado, Texas, can look forward to more rest space soon. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is adding 103 new parking spots at a cost of $12 million.

The project: Located between Austin and Waco, these additional spaces aim to ease the pressure on current facilities.

• The new spots will be split with 52 added on the northbound side and 51 on the southbound along Interstate 35.
• Expected completion is by the end of 2025.

Why it matters: Parking is a persistent challenge for truckers who often plan creatively to find safe places to rest. "A lot of times, I’d call the customer to see if I could stop there and sleep," said Zachary Adams, a truck driver, as reported by KWTX.

Safety concerns: TxDOT's Jake Smith emphasizes the importance of these facilities for keeping tired drivers off the roads, reducing the risk of accidents.

• He states fatigue can lead to poor decision-making, stressing the importance of using these new rest areas.

Work on the rest areas is set to enhance safety and convenience, allowing truckers a safe place to park without posing public hazards.