MnDOT is dedicated to the efficient movement of freight and commodities within Minnesota, including the movement of freight by truck, rail, water, and air. The freight office is engaged in many activities related to both freight planning and operations.
In collaboration with the trucking and truck stop industry, MnDOT has begun a truck parking study to assess the needs for safety across the state for commercial truck parking. The study aligns with the federal update to the Jason’s Law Survey, which provides information on a national basis about the needs for safe places to park and rest. The results of the study will be used to inform future improvements and coordination between the public and private sectors throughout Minnesota.
In addition, MnDOT recently implemented a Truck Parking Information Management System (TPIMS) that uses electronic signs to show real time truck parking availability at major rest areas on key interstate routes in Minnesota. TPIMS is part of ongoing efforts to make it easier to find truck parking. For more information, visit https://trucksparkhere.com.
MnDOT has selected three projects improving rail service in the state, including $1 million to the City of Becker to add a 7,000-foot rail spur to a new processing facility, $450,000 for new rail infrastructure for a new soybean processing and biodiesel facility and $101,139 to replace a railroad bridge over Rice Creek in New Brighton. The Minnesota Rail Service Improvement Program is designed to rehabilitate deteriorating rail lines, improve rail-shipping opportunities and preserve and maintain abandoned rail corridors for future transportation uses.
On January 23, 2018, MnDOT received notification from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) that MnDOT’s plan met the requirements of the Fixing America's Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act) for State Freight Plans. To view the plan please visit our freight plan website.
